Differential Diagnosis for Occipital Headaches Activated by Motion
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cervicogenic headache: This condition is characterized by headaches that are referred from the cervical spine and are often triggered or exacerbated by movement of the neck. The pain typically starts in the occipital region and may radiate to other areas of the head.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Tension headache: Although tension headaches are generally more diffuse, they can sometimes present with occipital pain and may be exacerbated by movement or tension in the neck muscles.
- Occipital neuralgia: This condition involves irritation of the occipital nerves and can cause sharp, stabbing pain in the occipital region, which may be triggered by movement.
- Migraine: Some migraines can present with occipital pain, especially those with a cervical or neck component, and may be exacerbated by movement.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage: Although less common, a sudden, severe headache (often described as "the worst headache of my life") that could be exacerbated by movement, warrants immediate investigation to rule out a subarachnoid hemorrhage.
- Cervical spine fracture or instability: Traumatic injuries to the cervical spine can cause headaches that are worsened by movement, and it is crucial to identify these conditions promptly to prevent further injury.
- Meningitis: Inflammation of the meninges can cause headaches that are exacerbated by movement, among other symptoms like fever and neck stiffness.
- Rare diagnoses
- Chiari malformation: A structural defect in the cerebellum that controls balance can cause headaches, especially with coughing, sneezing, or straining, which might also be considered motion-activated.
- Craniovertebral junction anomalies: Abnormalities at the junction between the skull and spine can lead to a variety of symptoms, including headaches that might be exacerbated by movement.