A burning sensation in the head is often described as a warm, tingling, or stinging feeling that may affect the scalp, forehead, or back of the head. Of course, several things can cause this sensation, but one of them is related to nerves, migraines, and stress. Thus, neuralgia or tension headaches can cause this sensation.
In fact, according to the National Headache Foundation, 15% of adults experience this sensation in the head because of stress or anxiety. Meanwhile, a study in the Journal of Neurology found that 8 out of 10 migraine sufferers reported an unusual sensation on the scalp before or during their headaches.
For this reason, we are here to explain the burning sensation at top of head
causes with symptoms and natural treatment options.
Burning Sensations on the Sides of the Head
Burning can be on the scalp, temples or back of the head and is often described as intense, tingling or prickly heat. It can vary from seconds of discomfort to persistent or recurring pain that interferes with daily activities and mental focus.
When we talk about burning in the head it can mean many health issues some of which need medical attention. It’s not just the pain itself but the abnormal sensations that come with it like scalp pain, tingling or tenderness that makes daily life tough.
Sides Head Burning Sensations Causes
Burning on the head can be caused by many health issues that need professional attention. These symptoms can manifest as quick, intense pain on one side of the head. Common causes are:
- occipital neuralgia
- nerve pain
- migraines
- scalp conditions
- anxiety
Degenerative disk disease and osteoarthritis can also increase the risk of occipital neuralgia and burning.
Occipital Neuralgia
Occipital neuralgia is a headache disorder that affects the occipital nerves and causes pain at the back of the head or behind the eyes. The pain can be constant, aching, burning or throbbing and can be accompanied by intermittent shocking or shooting pain.
The pain from occipital neuralgia feels sharp or electric and can last from seconds to much longer and can be chronic.
Chronic neck tension is often the underlying cause of occipital neuralgia. But some cases are still unknown. Common causes are pinched nerves, muscle tightness in the neck, head or neck injury. Diabetes and multiple sclerosis can also cause nerve pain in the scalp.
There are two types of occipital neuralgia: primary and secondary, secondary is associated with underlying diseases that cause nerve pain.
Diagnosing occipital neuralgia is important as it can be mistaken for migraines and other headache disorders. Neurological exams help rule out other conditions that can mimic occipital neuralgia and help develop treatment plans.
Light touch like brushing hair can trigger pain in people with this condition.
Treatment for occipital neuralgia is to address the cause, like relieving muscle tension or treat occipital neuralgia nerve damage.
Occipital neuralgia pain, occipital nerve stimulation and spinal cord stimulation are advanced treatment options for severe headaches and pain relief.
Nerve Pain and Neuropathic Conditions
Neuropathic pain is caused by damage or dysfunction in the nervous system and often feels like burning or tingling.
Symptoms of nerve pain in the head can be sharp, shooting or burning and can be life altering. Common causes of nerve pain in the scalp are infections, trauma and nerve compression.
Tight neck muscles or pinched nerves can cause burning on the sides of the head. Treating neuropathic pain involves addressing the underlying nervous system disorders to get relief. Certain anticonvulsants and antidepressants can manage nerve pain by altering nerve signaling and can give great relief to those who experience burning.
Massage therapy is another treatment for nerve related pain as it helps to relax muscle and improve circulation and gives relief.
Migraines and Other Headache Disorders
Some migraineurs experience burning as part of their headache disorder especially during the aura phase that can precede a migraine headache. These sensations can be very distressing and adds to the already debilitating condition.
Managing migraine symptoms involves avoiding triggers, taking medications and making lifestyle changes.
Scalp Conditions and Infections
Infections and skin conditions are common causes of burning on the scalp. Symptoms like itching, redness and scalp tenderness often accompany these sensations making the condition more uncomfortable. Proper scalp care and hygiene is important to prevent these and maintain a healthy scalp.
In some cases medical intervention is necessary especially when nerve issues are suspected to be causing the scalp burning.
Anxiety and Stress Related Symptoms
Anxiety and stress are common factors that can cause burning on the head. Anxiety tension can cause physical symptoms including burning which can worsen the discomfort cycle. This cycle can be hard to break without stress management techniques.
Relaxation techniques like mindfulness, meditation or yoga can help alleviate symptoms caused by anxiety and stress.
Diagnosis
Consulting a doctor is necessary for the proper diagnosis of burning on the head.
the American Academy of Neurology tells us that early intervention can reduce the development of chronic headaches by 70%. Sounds good, right?
The diagnosis process involves physical examination, medical history and various tests to identify conditions not apparent from symptoms.
Physical and Neurological Exams
These exams involve physical examination and neurological exam to diagnose conditions related to burning.
Doctors can use occipital nerve blocks to confirm diagnosis. This is for occipital neuralgia. Physical therapists may also use specific techniques to target muscle tension and discomfort related to burning.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests like MRI and CT scans are important to identify structural abnormalities that can cause burning on the head. These scans can visualize underlying spine issues related to occipital neuralgia.
Treatment for Side Head Burning
Medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes and stress management techniques are all options to manage symptoms.
Below are the treatment options.
Medications for Pain
Medications can give significant relief from burning on the head. Working closely with a doctor is important. This will help you find the right medication for your symptoms. Nerve blocks are used when other treatments don’t give enough relief and part of a bigger treatment plan.
Physical Therapy and Massage Therapy
Physical therapy can improve muscle strength, flexibility and coordination which can relieve pain from nerve issues.
Regular physical therapy sessions can lead to pain reduction and overall function. Therapists will focus on exercises specific to the condition and the areas involved.
Massage and neck stretching can relieve occipital neuralgia symptoms and give relief.
Lifestyle and Stress Management
Practicing mindfulness can reduce stress related discomforts including burning. Managing stress, eating balanced diet and staying active are important lifestyle changes that can help manage migraine symptoms.
Prevention Ways
Here are ten ways to prevent burning sensations on the sides of the head.
1. Good Posture
Sit and stand properly to reduce neck and shoulder tension which can cause headaches and burning.
2. Manage Stress
Incorporate stress reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation or yoga to reduce tension that can cause head pain.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration which can cause headaches and burning.
4. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake as both can cause dehydration and headaches in some people.
5. Exercise Regularly
Engage in physical activity to improve circulation and reduce muscle tension which can prevent headaches and burning.
6. Take Breaks
If you work at a computer or do activities that require prolonged focus, take breaks to rest your eyes and neck to reduce strain.
7. Relaxation Techniques
Do relaxation techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation or gentle stretching to reduce head and neck tension.
8. Get Enough Sleep
7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help your body recover and reduce tension headaches.
Also, make sure you sleep on the right pillow, since pillows can give you headaches.
9. Limit Screen Time
Reduce screen time and proper lighting to minimize eye strain which can cause headaches and burning.
10. See a Doctor
If you experience burning on the sides of your head frequently, see a doctor for evaluation and advice.
When to Get Medical Help
If burning persists or worsens or with other concerning symptoms, seek medical help. See a doctor especially if you have unusual sharp pain on the neck or scalp not with nausea or light sensitivity.
Key Facts
- Burning on the sides of the head can be caused by occipital neuralgia, nerve pain, migraines, scalp conditions and anxiety.
- Early diagnosis through physical exams and imaging tests is key to burning sensations and treatment options.
- Treatment options are medications and physical therapy to lifestyle changes and stress management techniques and finding the underlying cause.
