Could headache be caused by cervical spondylosis?

Anatomical studies have found that the 1st to 4th cervical nerves are closely related to headaches. These nerves are interconnected to form the greater occipital nerve, lesser occipital nerve, greater auricular nerve and cervical plexus, which are responsible for the sensory conduction of the occipital muscles and skin. In addition, in the posterior horn of the cervical spinal cord, the 1st to 3rd cervical nerves are extensively connected with the terminal fibers from the olfactory nerve, facial nerve, glossopharyngeal nerve, vagus nerve and afferent branch of the trigeminal nerve, so that the sensory range extends forward to the forehead, infraorbital area, etc.

Among patients who visit the outpatient clinic for headache, 70%-80% suffer from cervical pain. Clinical manifestations include unilateral or bilateral stuffiness or soreness in the occipital region and behind the ears, which may spread to the forehead, temporal region, top of the head, neck or upper limbs, and even the face, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, tinnitus, eye swelling, and changes in smell and taste. Physical examination may reveal obvious tenderness beside the cervical spine below the ear and behind the mastoid process, and scattered tender points on the head. The top pressure and head support tests may be positive. Neck CT and MRI are of great significance for the diagnosis of cervicogenic headache.

Usually, the proportion of women suffering from cervicogenic headaches is higher than that of men. This may be because women participate in less physical exercise, the supporting power of the neck muscles is weak, and headaches caused by cervical spondylosis are relatively common. Secondly, the cyclical changes in the female endocrine system are more obvious, which leads to premenstrual headaches. Furthermore, women have worse psychological endurance than men, and they think more when encountering things. Long-term stress causes tension and depression, which can also cause headaches related to depression and anxiety. Regardless of the cause of the headache, you should see a doctor as soon as possible for symptomatic medication and treatment.