Can Occipital Neuralgia Cause Dizziness?
December 14, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Occipital neuralgia is a condition characterized by intense, sharp, or stabbing pain in the upper neck, back of the head, and behind the eyes. While occipital neuralgia primarily involves pain due to irritation or inflammation of the occipital nerves, it is less commonly associated with symptoms of dizziness or vertigo.
However, in some cases, the intense pain experienced with occipital neuralgia might indirectly lead to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness. This could be due to the body’s natural response to severe pain, which may cause a sense of imbalance or trigger sensations of dizziness or light-headedness.
Moreover, the nerves involved in occipital neuralgia are located in the upper part of the neck and the base of the skull. While the pain itself doesn’t typically cause dizziness, if the underlying cause of the occipital neuralgia is related to a cervical spine issue or other conditions affecting the neck, it’s possible that these conditions might contribute to dizziness or balance problems.
If you’re experiencing dizziness along with occipital neuralgia, it’s essential to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider. They can conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and provide appropriate treatment. Additionally, they might explore other potential causes of dizziness or vertigo that could be unrelated to occipital neuralgia to ensure a comprehensive assessment of your condition.