What are the common causes of headache, dizziness, fatigue, and neck pain. How can these symptoms be effectively treated. What preventive measures can be taken to avoid these debilitating conditions. When should you seek medical attention for these symptoms.

Understanding Cervical Headaches: A Common Culprit

Cervical headaches, also known as cervicogenic headaches, are a frequent source of discomfort for many individuals. These headaches stem from structural issues within the cervical spine, which encompasses the neck region. The pain can persist for days or occur intermittently, often accompanied by neck stiffness, nausea, and fatigue.

Various factors can contribute to cervical spine damage, including:

• Injuries from accidents or surgeries
• Compression fractures
• Herniated discs
• Spinal cord inflammation
• Poor posture leading to neck strain

Diagnosing cervical headaches typically involves a physical examination of the neck and spine imaging. Treatment options are diverse and tailored to the underlying cause:

• Pain relievers to alleviate neck pain and headaches
• Physiotherapy to improve neck mobility and function
• Surgical interventions for severe cervical spine issues
• Nerve blocks to target specific pain areas

Migraines: More Than Just a Headache

Migraines are characterized by moderate to severe throbbing headaches, often affecting one side of the head. These debilitating episodes can be accompanied by increased sensitivity to light and sounds, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.

While the exact cause of migraines remains elusive, several factors are believed to play a role:

• Changes in brain chemistry
• Alterations in brain nerves and blood vessels
• Genetic predisposition

Common triggers for migraines include:

• Menstruation
• Stress
• Fatigue
• Certain foods and beverages

Although there’s no definitive cure for migraines, several treatment options can help manage symptoms:

• Resting in a dark, quiet room during an episode
• Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen
• Prescription medications such as triptans to reverse brain changes
• Antiemetics to reduce nausea and vomiting

Viral Gastroenteritis: When Your Stomach Turns Against You

Viral gastroenteritis (VG) is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract caused by viral infections. The most common culprit is norovirus, which can trigger a range of uncomfortable symptoms:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Body aches
• Fever

Persistent diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, causing additional symptoms such as dizziness upon standing, dry mouth and throat, and reduced urination. While VG typically resolves on its own, managing symptoms and preventing dehydration are crucial:

• Over-the-counter medications like loperamide or bismuth subsalicylate for diarrhea control
• Drinking plenty of water and clear fluids
• Consuming low-sugar fruit juices or sports drinks to replenish electrolytes

If symptoms persist for more than a few days, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Cerebral Aneurysms: A Silent Threat

A cerebral aneurysm is an enlarged blood vessel within the brain, resulting from a weakness in the vessel wall. While small aneurysms may be asymptomatic, larger ones can exert pressure on surrounding nerves or brain tissue, leading to various symptoms:

• Pain above and behind the eye
• Visual changes
• Pupil dilation
• Facial paralysis on one side
• Numbness or weakness

In severe cases, an aneurysm may leak or rupture, necessitating immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm include:

• Sudden, severe headache
• Blurred or double vision
• Light sensitivity
• Stiff neck
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

Treatment for cerebral aneurysms varies depending on their size and location. Some may require monitoring, while others might necessitate surgical intervention. Preventive measures to reduce the risk of aneurysm rupture include:

• Regular blood pressure monitoring
• Smoking cessation
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen

Dehydration: An Often Overlooked Cause

Dehydration, a condition where the body loses more fluids than it takes in, can lead to a surprising array of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and neck pain. This condition can be caused by various factors:

• Excessive sweating due to heat or physical activity
• Insufficient fluid intake
• Illnesses causing vomiting or diarrhea
• Certain medications

Recognizing the signs of dehydration is crucial for prompt treatment:

• Dry mouth and lips
• Decreased urine output or dark-colored urine
• Fatigue and dizziness
• Headache
• Rapid heartbeat

Treating dehydration involves replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes. For mild cases, this can be achieved by:

• Drinking water or oral rehydration solutions
• Consuming foods high in water content, such as fruits and vegetables
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can further dehydrate the body

Severe dehydration may require intravenous fluids and immediate medical attention.

Stress and Tension: The Silent Culprits

In our fast-paced world, stress and tension have become ubiquitous, often manifesting as physical symptoms including headaches, neck pain, dizziness, and fatigue. The body’s response to stress can trigger a cascade of physiological changes:

• Muscle tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Hormonal imbalances
• Disrupted sleep patterns

Managing stress-induced symptoms involves a multifaceted approach:

• Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
• Engaging in regular physical exercise
• Maintaining a balanced diet
• Ensuring adequate sleep
• Seeking professional help through counseling or therapy

Additionally, specific treatments for stress-related physical symptoms may include:

• Massage therapy to relieve muscle tension
• Acupuncture for pain relief and stress reduction
• Over-the-counter pain relievers for headaches
• Prescription medications for severe cases of anxiety or depression

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many cases of headache, dizziness, fatigue, and neck pain can be managed at home, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. Be alert for the following red flags:

• Sudden, severe headache described as the “worst headache of your life”
• Headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, and confusion
• Persistent or worsening symptoms despite home remedies
• Headache following a head injury
• Vision changes or speech difficulties
• Weakness or numbness on one side of the body

These symptoms could indicate serious conditions such as meningitis, stroke, or intracranial bleeding, requiring prompt medical evaluation and treatment.

Diagnostic Approaches for Complex Symptoms

When faced with a combination of symptoms like headache, dizziness, fatigue, and neck pain, healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic tools:

• Detailed medical history and physical examination
• Blood tests to check for infections or other systemic issues
• Imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI to visualize brain and neck structures
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) to assess brain electrical activity
• Lumbar puncture in cases where meningitis is suspected

The choice of diagnostic tests depends on the specific symptoms, their severity, and the suspected underlying conditions.

Holistic Approaches to Symptom Management

In addition to conventional medical treatments, many individuals find relief through holistic approaches:

• Chiropractic care for neck pain and headaches
• Yoga and tai chi for stress reduction and improved posture
• Dietary modifications to identify and eliminate potential trigger foods
• Herbal supplements like feverfew or butterbur for migraine prevention
• Aromatherapy using essential oils for relaxation and pain relief

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, especially when combining alternative therapies with conventional medications.

Preventive Measures for Long-Term Health

While not all cases of headache, dizziness, fatigue, and neck pain can be prevented, adopting certain lifestyle habits can reduce their frequency and severity:

• Maintaining good posture, especially when working at a desk
• Taking regular breaks to stretch and move during prolonged periods of sitting
• Staying hydrated throughout the day
• Practicing stress management techniques regularly
• Ensuring a balanced diet rich in nutrients
• Getting adequate, quality sleep each night
• Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake
• Avoiding known trigger foods or situations

By incorporating these habits into daily life, individuals can potentially reduce the occurrence of these troublesome symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

The Role of Technology in Symptom Tracking

In the digital age, technology can play a crucial role in managing and understanding symptoms:

• Smartphone apps for tracking headaches and potential triggers
• Wearable devices monitoring sleep patterns and stress levels
• Online symptom checkers for initial guidance (though not a substitute for professional medical advice)
• Telemedicine platforms for remote consultations with healthcare providers

These tools can provide valuable insights into symptom patterns and help individuals communicate more effectively with their healthcare providers.

The Importance of Patient Education

Understanding the underlying causes and treatment options for headache, dizziness, fatigue, and neck pain empowers patients to take an active role in their health management. Key aspects of patient education include:

• Learning to recognize early warning signs of various conditions
• Understanding the proper use of medications and their potential side effects
• Knowing when to seek emergency medical care
• Developing strategies for communicating symptoms effectively to healthcare providers

Healthcare providers play a crucial role in educating patients about their conditions and treatment options, fostering a collaborative approach to health management.

The Impact of Environmental Factors

Environmental factors can significantly influence the occurrence and severity of headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and neck pain. Consider the following potential triggers:

• Changes in barometric pressure, which can affect migraine sufferers
• Exposure to strong odors or chemical fumes
• Poor air quality, including high levels of allergens or pollutants
• Excessive noise or bright lights in the workplace or home
• Extreme temperatures or sudden weather changes

Identifying and mitigating these environmental triggers can be an essential step in managing symptoms. This might involve:

• Using air purifiers to improve indoor air quality
• Wearing sunglasses to reduce glare and light sensitivity
• Using noise-cancelling headphones in loud environments
• Monitoring weather forecasts to prepare for potential trigger days

By being aware of and addressing these environmental factors, individuals can potentially reduce the frequency and intensity of their symptoms.

Headache, dizziness, fatigue, and neck pain: Causes and treatment

A headache, along with neck pain, dizziness, and fatigue, can be debilitating. Numerous conditions can cause these symptoms, including migraines, tumors, or even dehydration. Some are relatively benign, while others can be serious or life threatening.

This article explores the potential triggers of headaches with dizziness, fatigue, and neck pain, along with their treatment options. We also outline tips for preventing these symptoms and offer advice on when to see a doctor.

There can be several reasons for a headache with neck pain, dizziness, and fatigue.

Cervical headache

A cervical headache, or cervicogenic headache, is a type of long-term or chronic headache due to structural issues with parts of the cervical spine, including the vertebrae, disc, muscle, or spinal cord. The cervical spine is the section of the spine that includes the neck.

Cervical spine damage can occur due to:

• injury resulting from accidents or surgery
• compression fractures
• a herniated disk
• inflammation of the spinal cord
• general neck strain due to posture issues

A cervical headache may cause pain that persists for several days, or the discomfort can come and go. Other possible symptoms include:

• neck stiffness
• nausea
• fatigue
• limited neck movement

Treatment

A doctor can usually diagnose cervical headaches by examining the neck and assessing the spine using medical imaging techniques.

The treatment will depend on the underlying cause, with options that include:

• pain relievers to ease neck pain and headaches
• physiotherapy to restore function and improve neck movement
• surgery to correct issues with the cervical spine
• nerve blocks to treat specific areas of pain

Migraine

A migraine is a moderate or severe throbbing headache that occurs on one side of the head. They may also cause additional symptoms, such as:

• increased sensitivity to light or sounds
• dizziness
• nausea
• vomiting

The exact cause of migraines remains unknown. However, experts believe that the following factors may play a role:

• changes in brain chemicals
• changes to the nerves and blood vessels inside the brain
• genetic factors

Some people report that certain factors can trigger their migraines, which commonly include:

• menstruation
• stress
• tiredness
• certain foods and drinks

Treatment

Although there is no cure for migraines, certain treatments can help reduce the symptoms, including:

• sleeping or lying in a dark room during a migraine
• taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen
• taking triptans, which help reverse brain-changes that can trigger migraines
• taking antiemetics to help reduce nausea and vomiting

Viral gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is the medical term for inflammation and irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. Viral gastroenteritis (VG) is gastroenteritis that occurs as a result of a viral infection.

Many viruses can trigger VG. The most common is norovirus, which can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• nausea
• vomiting
• stomach pain
• diarrhea
• headaches
• body aches
• fever

Persistent diarrhea and vomiting can also lead to dehydration. This may lead to additional symptoms, such as:

• dizziness when standing up
• dry mouth and throat
• reduced urine

Treatment

Viral gastroenteritis usually goes away on its own without medical treatment. Until then, people can take medications to control their diarrhea. Examples include loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol).

People can help prevent dehydration by:

• drinking plenty of water and other clear fluids
• drinking low-sugar fruit juices or sports drinks to help replace lost electrolytes

Contact a doctor if symptoms do not improve within a few days.

Cerebral aneurysm

An aneurysm refers to an enlarged blood vessel. This occurs due to a weakness in the blood vessel wall. An aneurysm that occurs within a blood vessel in the brain is known as a cerebral aneurysm.

A small cerebral aneurysm that does not increase in size might not come with any symptoms. However, larger aneurysms may put pressure on the surrounding nerves or brain tissue, which can trigger the following symptoms:

• pain above and behind the eye
• changes in vision
• a dilated pupil in the eye
• paralysis on one side of the face
• numbness
• weakness

In some cases, an aneurysm may leak or rupture, which requires emergency medical attention. Symptoms to look out for include:

• a sudden, severe, and intense headache
• blurred or double vision
• sensitivity to light
• stiff neck
• nausea
• vomiting
• seizures
• brief or prolonged loss of consciousness
• cardiac arrest

Treatment

According to the National Institute of Neurological Diseases and Stroke (NINDS), not all aneurysms require treatment. In some cases, a doctor may recommend monitoring them for signs of growth.

NINDS recommend people take the following steps to help reduce the risk of a ruptured aneurysm:

• monitoring and controlling blood pressure
• quitting smoking
• avoiding the use of stimulant drugs

Some people may require surgery to reduce or cut off blood supply to the aneurysm.

Stroke

A stroke is a potentially life threatening condition where the blood supply to part of the brain becomes cut off, which can result in brain cell death. A stroke can occur for the following reasons:

• an artery that supplies blood to the brain becomes blocked
• blood vessel within the brain ruptures

A sudden and severe headache can sometimes be a warning sign of stroke, though it is not a common symptom. In a 2015 study, only 49 out of 263 people who experienced a stroke reported a simultaneous headache.

Besides a headache, other possible stroke symptoms include:

• sudden numbness or weakness in a limb, or on one side of the face
• vision problems in one or both eyes
• difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• confusion
• dizziness
• loss of balance
• lack of coordination
• difficulty walking

Treatment

A stroke is a medical emergency. Without rapid treatment, it may result in severe brain damage or death. A person who shows signs of a stroke should phone for an ambulance immediately if possible. People should also look out for these symptoms in others and seek emergency medical care if they suspect a stroke.

Stroke treatments depend on the underlying cause. Some possible options include:

• Thrombolytics: Medications can help break up blood clots.
• Endovascular procedure: A procedure where a surgeon guides surgical instruments through a tube inserted into a limb to repair a broken blood vessel.
• Surgical treatment: Involves placing a metal clip around a ruptured blood vessel to reduce further bleeding.

Brain tumor

A brain tumor is when a collection of cells within the brain multiply abnormally and uncontrollably.

Doctors classify brain tumors into grades, depending on how fast they grow and how likely they are to grow back after treatment.

Grade 1 and 2 brain tumors are non-cancerous or benign, and slow-growing. Grade 3 and 4 brain tumors are cancerous or malignant. These tumors may originate in the brain or may spread from elsewhere in the body. They are fast-growing and more likely to re-occur following treatment.

Brain tumor symptoms depend partly on the area of the brain that they affect. Some common symptoms include:

• headaches
• dizziness
• seizures
• persistent nausea
• vomiting
• drowsiness and fatigue
• progressive weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
• problems with speech, vision, or memory
• changes in personality or behavior

Treatment

Brain tumor treatments depend on the following factors:

• type, grade, and location of the tumor
• how abnormal the cells are
• how big the tumor is and how far it has spread
• the person’s overall health and fitness

Some possible treatment options include:

• steroids to reduce swelling around the tumor
• antiepileptic medications to control seizures
• pain medications to ease pain
• surgery to remove the tumor
• radiation therapy or chemotherapy to help destroy any abnormal cells

Other possible causes of headaches, dizziness, neck pain, and fatigue include dehydration and anxiety.

Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when the body does not have enough water to function properly. This can result in the following symptoms:

• headaches
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• tiredness
• dry mouth, lips, and eyes
• dark, strong-smelling urine
• reduced urine

Anxiety

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, headaches are a common symptom of anxiety. People with this condition may also experience panic attacks, which can trigger the following physical symptoms:

• heart palpitations
• chest pain or discomfort
• shortness of breath
• sweating
• trembling or shaking
• numbness or tingling sensations
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• nausea

Cervical headaches indicate that there may be an injury in the cervical spine or surrounding soft tissue.

People who experience them may benefit from the following treatments:

• physical therapy to help regain function
• alternative therapies, such as acupuncture
• medications to alleviate pain
• surgery to address serious injuries

Anyone with severe, persistent, or worsening headaches should see a doctor for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The acronym SNOOP can help people decide when a headache may be serious, which stands for:

• Systemic symptoms:
  • fever
  • persistent vomiting
  • stiff neck
• Neurological symptoms:
  • changes in mood, personality, or behavior
  • confusion
  • memory problems
  • seizures
  • loss of consciousness
  • weakness or paralysis
• Onset: New or sudden onset of headaches.
• Other conditions: A headache that develops following another condition or head injury.
• Prior history: If the headache differs from previous headaches, or they get steadily worse, this could signal a serious issue.

It is not possible to prevent all headaches. However, certain strategies can reduce a person’s risk of developing diseases that may trigger them. These include:

• Following a healthful lifestyle: Exercising regularly and eating a healthful and varied diet can lower the risk of stroke, aneurysm, and other life threatening medical conditions.
• Monitoring headaches: People should keep a diary that records when their headaches occur, as well as their duration and intensity. This will allow them to detect possible headache triggers.
• Managing anxiety and stress: Proper anxiety and stress management may help reduce headaches and other symptoms. People can try relaxation techniques, such as:
  • massage
  • exercise
  • meditation
  • talking therapy
• Managing underlying medical conditions: It is essential that people tend to any underlying medical issues to reduce the risk of serious complications.

Headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and neck pain can be a worrying combination. Various conditions can cause these symptoms, while some are more serious than others. Potentially life threatening triggers include aneurysms, stroke, and brain tumors.

As headaches can indicate serious health issues, people who experience severe, persistent, or worsening headaches should see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Anyone who experiences symptoms of an aneurysm or stroke should seek emergency medical care immediately. Timely treatment can reduce the risk of serious complications, including death.

Neck pain with a headache: Symptoms, causes, and treatments

Various conditions, such as infections, stress, and illness, can cause neck pain and a headache. Although people can usually manage symptoms at home, they may need to contact a doctor in some cases.

People sometimes worry that a headache means they have cancer or another serious medical issue. Most headaches, though, are harmless and go away on their own.

Monitoring for other symptoms, such as fever, and tracking whether or not symptoms get worse can tell a person if they should seek medical attention.

Read more to learn about what causes neck pain and headache, how to treat the symptoms, and when to contact a doctor.

There are many different types of headaches. The most common are migraine, cluster, and tension.

Tension headache

A tension headache gradually gets worse with time, and neck pain can accompany it. Fatigue, stress, and muscle strain are often underlying causes of these headaches.

These headaches often lead to a dull, throbbing pain on both sides of the head. The pain might come and go.

Learn more about tension headaches here.

Cervicogenic headache

According to the American Migraine Association, a specific source of pain in the head or neck causes a cervicogenic headache. It leads to a dull, aching pain on one side of the head.

In addition to pain, a person may experience:

• a limited range of motion of their neck
• a headache that worsens as a result of specific movements
• increased headache pain due to pressure on the neck
• pain that typically occurs on one side of the head
• pain that starts in the back of the head or neck and travels behind the eyes

Learn more about cervicogenic headaches here.

Cluster headache

A cluster headache is a sudden, intense headache that can be debilitating. It usually begins near the eyes or temples and affects just one side of the head.

This headache can make a person have red eyes, a runny nose, and congestion.

Cluster headaches typically last less than 3 hours. They often begin with a prodromal phase, which is when a person may have changes in mood, personality, or sensations. Some people may also have neck stiffness.

Learn more about cluster headaches here.

COVID-19 headache

A COVID-19 infection can cause headaches in some people. According to a 2020 study, 11–34% of people receiving hospital treatment for COVID-19 reported experiencing a headache. People with a COVID-19 headache may also have a stiff neck as well as widespread muscle pain, aches, and stiffness.

A COVID-19 headache can happen for several reasons, including:

• muscle stiffness, especially in the neck and back
• a sinus headache from congestion
• inflammation
• damage to blood vessels
• changes in blood pressure

The virus can also lead to meningitis, which causes a stiff neck, headache, light sensitivity, and sometimes changes in thinking or personality.

Learn more about COVID-19 headaches here.

Migraine

Migraine is a type of neurological headache that can cause severe pain.

A 2020 study suggests that neck pain may be the most common migraine symptom, beginning at the same time as the headache.

The study, which included 50 participants, found that neck pain occurred alongside a migraine headache in about 90% of people. The remaining 10% experienced neck pain at other points during their migraine headache.

Learn more about migraine here.

Meningitis

Meningitis is swelling of the meninges, which are membranes that line the skull and spinal column. It happens when an infection attacks the meninges. Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites can all cause meningitis.

People with meningitis often have a very bad headache and a stiff neck that makes it difficult to move the head. It can also cause other symptoms, including:

• fever
• confusion
• loss of consciousness
• dizziness
• nausea and vomiting
• sensitivity to light

Learn more about meningitis.

The treatment for a headache and neck pain depends on the type of headache a person has. The following are common treatments for different types of headaches.

Tension headache

Tension headaches often cause mild to moderate pain. In some instances, over-the-counter (OTC) medication, massage, or rest will relieve pain. If the pain is persistent or occurs frequently, a person may need additional treatment options.

Some prevention strategies include:

• eating regular meals
• managing stress
• getting regular rest
• exercising each day for at least 30 minutes
• avoiding triggers such as stress or lack of sleep
• drinking enough water
• keeping a headache log to identify triggers
• stretching to reduce neck and upper body tension

Learn about home remedies for headaches here.

Cervicogenic headache

Cervicogenic headaches are the result of an underlying condition in the neck, so treatments focus on the neck. People experiencing these headaches should contact a doctor.

Typical treatments for cervicogenic headaches can vary but may include:

• using nerve blocks
• taking pain medication
• having physical therapy

Migraine headache

Migraine treatments often involve improving a person’s symptoms and preventing future migraine.

Some treatment options include:

• using medications, such as pain relievers, triptan, or ergotamine drugs
• resting in a dark, quiet room
• drinking plenty of fluids
• applying a cool, damp cloth or ice pack on the forehead
• undergoing hormone therapy
• recording triggers and trying to avoid them
• managing stress

Learn more about tips for migraine relief here.

Many people do not need to contact a doctor for a headache and neck pain. Usually, taking OTC medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or applying heat packs can adequately manage pain.

A person should contact a doctor if:

• the headache does not go away or gets worse
• OTC medications do not stop the pain
• the headache interferes with daily activities
• sexual activity, coughing, sneezing, exercise, or bending over trigger the headache
• they develop nausea or dizziness

A person should seek emergency medical treatment if they experience:

• vomiting that will not stop
• loss of vision
• pain lasting more than 72 hours
• the presence of unusual symptoms
• an intense “thunderclap” sensation in their head
• weakness or numbness of the face or arms
• slurred speech
• stiff neck and fever

Neck pain and headaches are often connected. Several types of headaches, including tension and migraine headaches, may correlate with neck and other pain.

People should contact a doctor if they are not sure what is causing their headache and neck pain, treatments are not working, or they experience other worrying symptoms.

Cervicalgia (neck pain) – treatment, symptoms, causes, diagnosis

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Title

• Causes of disease
• Symptoms
• Diagnostics
• Methods of treatment

Neck pain ( cervicalgia ) is a common pain syndrome. About 10 percent of adults have experienced neck pain at least once in their lives. Cervicalgia (neck pain) can be caused by a number of factors, including muscle strain, ligament strain, arthritis, or nerve root compression. Pain in the neck can occur from a number of diseases of the spine and diseases of any tissue in the neck. In addition, neck pain can be associated with infections, for example, viral infections of the throat lead to swollen lymph nodes and pain in the neck. Neck pain may also be associated with rare infections such as tuberculosis, osteomyelitis, septic discitis, or meningitis (often accompanied by a stiff neck). Pain in the neck can be caused by diseases that affect the muscle structures of the neck (fibromyalgia or polymyalgia rheumatica). Provoking factors for the occurrence of pain in the neck are contact sports, injuries such as traffic accidents, excessive physical activity.

Causes

There are quite a lot of causes of pain in the neck and it is far from always possible to immediately determine the source of pain, and sometimes even with the help of instrumental research methods it can be difficult to determine the true cause of pain. The main conditions causing neck pain are:

Neck strain . A strain on the neck muscles can be caused by injury, which can lead to spasm of the neck muscles and the muscles of the upper back. Stretching of the neck muscles can be the result of systematic static loads associated with poor posture, psychological stress, or lack of sleep. Typically, symptoms of a neck strain include pain, stiffness, and discomfort in the upper back or shoulder, and symptoms can last up to six weeks.

Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative change of the vertebrae in the cervical spine, in which there is a change in the shape of the vertebrae and bone growths along the edges of the vertebrae (osteophytes). Osteophytes can exert compression on surrounding tissues (including nervous structures). Studies show that in almost 90% of cases of nerve compression, osteophytes are the cause. Moderate manifestations of spondylosis are a common involutionary process associated with the aging of the body, while significant manifestations of spondylosis are a pathological degenerative process. Symptoms of cervical spondylosis may include neck pain or weakness, numbness or discomfort in the arms or shoulders, headaches, or restricted neck movement.

Discogenic neck pain . It is believed that discogenic neck pain is the most common in the structure of neck pain. The cause of discogenic pain is morphological changes in the structure of one or more intervertebral discs. The characteristic symptoms of discogenic neck pain are pain in the neck when turning or tilting the head. Pain may increase when the neck is subjected to prolonged static load, when the neck is in one position for a long time (for example, when driving a car, while working at a computer). The pain may be accompanied by stiffness in the muscles and muscle spasms. Discogenic pain may also radiate to the arm and shoulder.

Facet joint syndrome – facet joints are located at the edges of the vertebrae and are most often damaged by whiplash injuries and are often a source of headaches. Another potential cause of damage to the facet joints may be the nature of the work associated with the need to frequently extend the neck. Symptoms of facet joint syndrome in the cervical spine include pain in the middle or side of the neck, some patients may have pain in the shoulder in the scapula, in the base of the skull, in one arm.

Whiplash injury – whiplash syndrome is caused by a traumatic incident of a sharp overextension of the neck (forward – backward). The most common cause of such an injury is a traffic accident. Whiplash symptoms include severe pain, muscle spasm, and reduced range of motion in the neck.

Cervical myofascial pain – myofascial pain is characterized by the presence of compacted and painful points in the neck. Myofascial pain in the neck can develop after an injury or be due to conditions such as psychological stress, depression, or insomnia.

Diffuse skeletal hyperostosis – Diffuse skeletal hyperostosis is a syndrome in which there is abnormal calcification in the ligaments and tendons of the cervical spine, resulting in thickening of the tissues. Many patients are asymptomatic, but some may have stiffness, pain, and reduced mobility. Diffuse skeletal hyperostosis can be not only in the cervical spine, but also in the thoracic and lumbar regions.

Cervical spondylogenic myelopathy – occurs in the presence of degenerative changes that lead to narrowing of the spinal canal. Spinal stenosis can lead to injury (compression) of the spinal cord and neurological damage. Therefore, in addition to pain manifestations, patients may have weakness in the limbs, impaired coordination of movements, as well as dysfunction of the pelvic organs (intestines, bladder, erectile dysfunction).

Cervical radiculopathy – cervical radiculopathy occurs when nerve roots are irritated by a herniated (protrusion) disc or other formations, such as a synovial cyst. Signs of radiculopathy may include pain, weakness, or sensory disturbances (eg, numbness, tingling) in the hands. The most common causes of cervical radiculopathy are degenerative changes in the cervical spine (osteochondrosis).

Symptoms

The pain in the neck is usually dull in nature. Sometimes the pain gets worse when you move your neck. Neck pain may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, sometimes the pain may be acute, there may be a violation of swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, dizziness.

Cervicalgia may be associated with facial headache, shoulder pain, numbness or tingling in the shoulder (upper limb paresthesia). These associated symptoms often result from root compression. For example, compression of a root with sensory fibers supplying the occipital region can lead to neck pain radiating to the occiput. Depending on the disease, in some cases, pain in the neck may be accompanied by pain in the upper back or in the lower back, for example, in Bechterew’s disease, when the inflammatory process covers the entire spine.

Diagnosis

Cervicalgia requires a clear definition of the cause of the pain. A full examination is especially necessary when neck pain is accompanied by neurological symptoms (impaired function of the pelvic organs) or the pain is intense, there are sensitivity disorders (numbness, tingling) or the pain syndrome lasts more than a week of treatment at home.

The doctor during the examination should assess the presence of painful points in the neck, the range of motion in the neck, the presence of muscle spasm, the condition of the muscles of the neck, shoulders, the presence of muscle weakness, tension of muscle groups in the upper body.

In some cases, imaging studies such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ENMG (nerve conduction diagnostics) are needed. These research methods help to verify the diagnosis.

Treatment

In most cases, neck pain is treated conservatively.

Medical treatment . NSAIDs (Voltaren, ibuprofen, naproxen) can be quite effective in relieving mild to moderate neck pain. In the presence of muscle spasm, muscle relaxants and sometimes even antidepressants may be recommended. But taking these drugs can be accompanied by drowsiness.

The use of cold compresses can reduce pain and relieve muscle spasm.

Massage – Massage can be helpful in relieving muscle spasm and improving blood flow to the muscles.

Manual therapy allows you to remove muscle blocks and mobilize motor segments and eliminate subluxations of the facet joints. Traction therapy is also used to decompress the nerve roots.

Orthopedic products (cervical collar) are useful when there is a pronounced pain syndrome (for example, with whiplash or radiculopathy). Wearing a neck collar regularly is not recommended as it can lead to weakening of the neck muscles. In addition, with pain in the neck, a good effect is the use of orthopedic pillows, which provide the neck with a physiological position during sleep.

Acupuncture . Impact on biologically active points allows you to restore normal conduction along the nerve fibers and reduce pain.

Trigger point injections local anesthetics can be quite effective, especially when myofascial pain occurs.

Physiotherapy. Modern physical therapy techniques such as SWT, cryotherapy or laser therapy are quite effective in the treatment of neck pain.

exercise therapy. The exercise program helps to restore normal muscle corset and functionality of the cervical spine.

Surgical methods treatments are necessary in cases where there are severe neurological symptoms or conservative treatment has not been effective (for example, with disc herniation and spondylogenic myelopathy).

Asthenopia, or tired eye syndrome.

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February 06, 2023

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What is asthenopia

Asthenopia is a group of symptoms that occur after intense and prolonged visual stress. Another name is “tired eye syndrome or digital stress”. In the International Classification of Diseases, asthenopia is included in the group of subjective visual disorders. The syndrome is diagnosed with various ophthalmic disorders – from functional to organic.
Asthenopia manifests itself differently for everyone, says Oksana Ageenkova, ophthalmologist, leading specialist of the GMS clinic network. For example, in normal life, a person has no problems with visual acuity, but after 30-40 minutes of driving a car, the contours of road signs become fuzzy and the headlights blur.

Restless eye syndrome can occur in children and adults of all ages. One study cites data that 46% of adults experience asthenopia during or after working on a computer, among schoolchildren there are at least 23%. Restless eye syndrome signals both an existing disorder and an impending problem. In the zone of greater risk are:

• those who work a lot at the computer or are engaged in activities that require prolonged visual concentration;
• people with vision problems, especially those who need correction. Hyperopia, myopia and astigmatism are the most common of these causes.

According to the doctor, any excessive and prolonged eye strain is all asthenopic syndrome. Simply put, it is the fatigue of the eye muscle caused by various reasons, one of which is the lack of glasses or contact lenses in the patient. It becomes difficult for children in this state to perceive large volumes of text, after some time they begin to complain of headaches, fatigue and inattention. Most often, such patients first get to a neurologist, who, in turn, refers them to an ophthalmologist.

“The eyes have such a function as accommodation (the adaptation of an organ to changing external conditions). They adapt to the state when glasses are needed, but they are not available. However, this cannot last long. It is then that asthenopic syndrome occurs. In other words, the eye gets tired of leveling all ophthalmic problems – whether it is astigmatism, latent hypermetropia or myopia.

Symptoms of asthenopia (eye fatigue)

Symptoms most often appear after prolonged use of the computer or while reading, especially if the font is small or the lighting is dim. This is usually accompanied by obvious discomfort – redness or dryness of the eyes. But there are also neocular symptoms. For example, headaches, back or neck pain. We list the most common manifestations of asthenopia:

• itching, redness and dry eyes;
• difficulty focusing on digital and other light sources, on text, images;
• flashes of light in the eyes, veil, blurring of contours;
• dizziness, headache, pain in the eyebrows;
• neck stiffness, general fatigue and back pain.

“Sometimes it happens that in adulthood, after a full-fledged ophthalmological examination, hidden plus values ​​are revealed in a patient. They greatly complicate the work of the ciliary muscle (it is responsible for accommodation), which provokes a feeling of a veil before the eyes or dryness, but the most formidable symptom is a headache. For all patients with signs of pain in the temporal or frontal region, discomfort after a large visual load, we recommend that you definitely visit an ophthalmologist.”

Why eyes get tired

The eye has several muscles that help it focus. The ciliary changes the shape of the lens, the extraocular allows the eyes to move from side to side. They function properly under optimal conditions, but in the event of a load beyond their capabilities, they get tired. There are several mechanisms for the development of asthenopia, as well as its classifications:

1. Accommodative asthenopia. Associated with increased tension of the ciliary muscle due to congenital or acquired refractive errors.
2. Asthenic asthenopia. It develops against the background of general exhaustion and weakening of the body, after suffering systemic diseases, various intoxications and infections, such as conjunctivitis.
3. Muscular asthenopia. Occurs with dysfunction of the external muscles that provide eye rotation in all planes.
4. Nervous asthenopia. Symptoms occur in certain neuropsychiatric disorders, prolonged stress and neuroses.

What causes eye fatigue:

• close and long concentration of attention on nearby objects;
• prolonged viewing of electronic screens, including computers, smartphones and video games;
• reading for a long time, including from digital media;
• driving, especially at dusk or at night;
• already existing vision problems.

How to save your eyesight

1. It is impossible to completely give up your smartphone, computer or reading. But there are ways to reduce eye strain and prevent the development of various complications. To do this, on the advice of ophthalmologists, the following recommendations should be followed.
2. See a doctor. Have an annual check-up with an ophthalmologist and do not neglect prescriptions for glasses and lenses, if they are recommended.
3. Adjust lighting. Make sure that the workplace is well lit and there is no glare from the computer screen.
4. Do eye exercises – the 20/20/20 rule. Another exercise is to look far away at an object for 10-15 seconds, and then at something near for 10-15 seconds.
5. Take breaks from work. Stretch your back, neck and shoulders to reduce tension and muscle fatigue. Avoid gadgets for this time.
6. Try to blink more often. This will keep the surface of the eye moist. By agreement with the doctor, special drops “artificial tears” can be used.
7. Watch your posture. The height of the chair should be adjusted so that the feet rest on the floor. While working at the computer, make sure that your wrists do not rest on the keyboard. Try to sit so that the distance from the monitor is at least 50 cm.

You can read the full text of the article at the link in the source.

Pediatric ophthalmologist
Ophthalmologist / ophthalmologist

Source RBC Life

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