Differential Diagnosis for Right Neck Discomfort
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Musculoskeletal strain: This is often the most common cause of neck discomfort, resulting from poor posture, overuse, or injury to the muscles and ligaments in the neck.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Cervical spondylosis: A common age-related condition that affects the joints and discs in the neck, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Tension headache: Can cause referred pain to the neck area due to muscle tension.
- Lymphadenitis: Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck, often due to infection.
- Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can cause neck pain and discomfort.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Carotid artery dissection: A tear in the carotid artery that can lead to stroke if not promptly treated.
- Pulmonary embolism: Although less common, can present with neck pain if the embolism is large and affects blood flow to the upper body.
- Aortic dissection: A tear in the aorta that can lead to severe complications, including death, if not immediately addressed.
- Meningitis: Infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, which can present with neck stiffness and pain.
- Rare diagnoses
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder: Although more commonly associated with jaw pain, can also cause referred pain to the neck.
- Eagle syndrome: A rare condition where an elongated styloid process or calcified stylohyoid ligament causes pain in the neck and face.
- Cervical spine infection (e.g., osteomyelitis, discitis): Infections of the cervical spine that can cause severe neck pain and stiffness.
- Referred pain from thoracic or abdominal pathology: Certain conditions affecting organs in the thorax or abdomen can cause referred pain to the neck.