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What Causes Burning Pain Behind The Head?

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Posted on Thu, 3 Nov 2016
Question: burning pain in left side back of head--5 to 10 seconds
doctor
Answered by Dr. Scott Rebich (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Muscle spasm, do not be concerned

Detailed Answer:
Hi there,

Burning sensation is almost always caused by neuropathic pain or nerve pain, especially when it only last for several seconds to minutes. However, people with neuropathic pain that is pathological such as diabetic peripheral neuropathy can have constant burning, pins and needle like sensation through out the day.

The nerves to the back of the head go through the muscles of the neck before reaching the back of the head. Therefore, any type of strain, spasm, irritation, or inflammation of the muscles of the neck can cause irritation of the nerve which will produce burning like sensation to the end of the nerves because they are impinged in the muscle. The nerves end on the back of your head which is where you get the sensation. I would not be concerned if I were you. If it continues or starts to happen more frequently, I would recommend getting screened for electrolyte and metabolic abnormalities which can cause muscle contractions and spasms that can produce neuropathic pain like you experienced.

Let me know if you have more questions!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Follow up: Dr. Scott Rebich (1 hour later)
Thank you, just had an appt and the Doc said the same thing
doctor
Answered by Dr. Scott Rebich (6 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Muscle spams

Detailed Answer:
Hi there,

I am glad you were able to get it figured out.
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
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Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Scott Rebich

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :2015

Answered : 283 Questions

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What Causes Burning Pain Behind The Head?

Brief Answer: Muscle spasm, do not be concerned Detailed Answer: Hi there, Burning sensation is almost always caused by neuropathic pain or nerve pain, especially when it only last for several seconds to minutes. However, people with neuropathic pain that is pathological such as diabetic peripheral neuropathy can have constant burning, pins and needle like sensation through out the day. The nerves to the back of the head go through the muscles of the neck before reaching the back of the head. Therefore, any type of strain, spasm, irritation, or inflammation of the muscles of the neck can cause irritation of the nerve which will produce burning like sensation to the end of the nerves because they are impinged in the muscle. The nerves end on the back of your head which is where you get the sensation. I would not be concerned if I were you. If it continues or starts to happen more frequently, I would recommend getting screened for electrolyte and metabolic abnormalities which can cause muscle contractions and spasms that can produce neuropathic pain like you experienced. Let me know if you have more questions!