HomeAnswersInternal Medicineheadache

Could my sleeping position be causing my head pain?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have a headache in my upper part of the head. I do not know if it is connected with my neck because I had stiff neck due to my sleeping position. Well I lay down to bed most of the time due to quarantine and after I had that stiff neck I had this. It is not actually a headache, I guess it is like irritation in my upper head. I do not know if it should be treated with a pain reliever. As it is not that severe I did not take it.

Please help.

Thank you for your guidance.

Answered by Dr. Thakre Mahendra Shivram

Education:

DNB

Professional Bio:

Dr. Thakre Mahendra Shivram is a dedicated General Physician with expertise in providing comprehensive medical care for patients across all age groups. His skills include diagnosing and treating a wide range of acute and chronic illnesses, conducting preventive health check-ups, and managing lifestyle-related conditions. He is proficient in prescribing evidence-based treatments, offering patient counseling, and coordinating with specialists when needed to ensure holistic care. With strong clinical judgment and a patient-focused approach, Dr. Shivram emphasizes early detection, effective management, and long-term health maintenance.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to iclinq.com.

I understand your concern. I need to know more about your headache.

How and when does it start? Is it unilateral or both sides? Is it intermittent or continuous or any diurnal variation? Any aggravating or relieving factors? Light or noise sensitivity? Does it associate with nausea, vomiting, or blurring of vision? Did you have a history of migraines or asthma? Any history of fever or sinusitis?

You should always note the red flags of headache such as sudden onset of headache, the onset of headache after 50 years of age, increased frequency or severity of headache, new onset of headache with an underlying medical condition, headache with concomitant systemic illness (fever and weight loss), focal neurologic signs or symptoms, blurring of vision. In that case, you need urgent evaluation.

If they are absent, you need not be worried.

Some times neck muscle tension stiffness may lead to headaches, as in your case. Simple Paracetamol or muscle relaxant will be useful. Adjust your sleeping position, try not to use high pillows.

Another most common cause of headache is migraine. Simple Paracetamol at the onset of the headache will be helpful. Also, avoid triggers that lead to a headache. You should have adequate sleep, avoid stress, and take meals on time.

I hope this addresses your concerns.

Please feel free to follow up if you need any additional clarification.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Vinodhini J.
Published At May 7, 2020
Reviewed At June 4, 2026

Education:

DNB

Professional Bio:

Dr. Thakre Mahendra Shivram is a dedicated General Physician with expertise in providing comprehensive medical care for patients across all age groups. His skills include diagnosing and treating a wide range of acute and chronic illnesses, conducting preventive health check-ups, and managing lifestyle-related conditions. He is proficient in prescribing evidence-based treatments, offering patient counseling, and coordinating with specialists when needed to ensure holistic care. With strong clinical judgment and a patient-focused approach, Dr. Shivram emphasizes early detection, effective management, and long-term health maintenance.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vinodhini J. is a Dental Surgeon with extensive years of clinical experience. She specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and oral health issues, including restorative, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. With a patient-centered approach, she focuses on maintaining oral health, alleviating discomfort, and enhancing smiles. Her expertise ensures comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s dental needs and overall wellbeing.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

DNB

Professional Bio:

Dr. Thakre Mahendra Shivram is a dedicated General Physician with expertise in providing comprehensive medical care for patients across all age groups. His skills include diagnosing and treating a wide range of acute and chronic illnesses, conducting preventive health check-ups, and managing lifestyle-related conditions. He is proficient in prescribing evidence-based treatments, offering patient counseling, and coordinating with specialists when needed to ensure holistic care. With strong clinical judgment and a patient-focused approach, Dr. Shivram emphasizes early detection, effective management, and long-term health maintenance.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Listen to related tracks in our music library
Comprehensive Second Opinion

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.