The German Headache and Migraine Society said that back of the head pain has many causes, some of which are simple and some of which are serious.
The association explained that pain in the back of the head is mostly due to what is known as tension headache, which occurs due to tension in the back muscles or cervical vertebrae. Tension headaches may also occur due to psychological stress.
Back of the head pain may also be due to improper sitting for a long period, for example when sitting for long hours in front of a computer screen.
migraine
Back of the head pain may also indicate a migraine, which appears as pain on only one side of the head, which can spread to the back of the head.
Back of the head pain may also be due to bruxism (grinding) of the teeth, that is, the teeth clenching together or rubbing against each other forcefully unintentionally, which creates a sound that may cause tooth damage and pain that may extend to the back of the head.
Back of the head pain also often occurs after head collisions or impacts. In this case, a doctor should be consulted immediately, because it may indicate a concussion or a cerebral hemorrhage.
Stroke
The association noted that pain in the back of the head may also herald a stroke, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting, and disturbances in vision, speech, and awareness. In this case, an ambulance must be called immediately to avoid permanent brain damage.
Back of the head pain also requires consulting a doctor if it is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, cramps, vision disturbances, dizziness, and vomiting. It may then herald meningitis or a brain tumor.