What is the reason for severe burning sensation at the base of the skull or top of the neck along with numbness, tingling, and electric shock-like feelings?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have been suffering from severe burning sensations in my head particularly at the base of the skull or top of the neck. Along with this, I experience numbness, tingling, and electric shock-like feelings. This has been going on for years but it has recently worsened, especially when I lie down. All MRIs, CTs, and blood tests are normal according to the general practitioner. But the report of my spine said dehydration of disc C5/C6 with minimal effacement of the thecal sac and well clear of the spinal cord and nerve roots. The doctors said I have a slight compression on the thecal sac where the CSF is but that it is nothing to worry about.
I am seeking an answer; could this condition be causing all of my horrific symptoms?
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and understand your concern.
Your symptoms are suggestive of occipital neuralgia. The MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) findings are within normal limits, not indicative of any serious medical disorder and I do not think that they are responsible for your symptoms. Just some mild chronic changes in the vertebral column. So, there is no reason to panic. I would suggest taking Pregabalin (gamma amino butyric acid), starting with a low dose (25 mg at bedtime) and increasing slowly up to 75 mg twice daily. This will help improve your situation.
Consult your specialist doctor, talk to them, and then take the medication as per their advice.
I hope this helps you.
Thank you for consulting me.
You can always come back and reach me at icliniq.com.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you.
But if the occipital neuralgia is not related to my spine, what could be causing it? There must be an underlying cause. Could the findings in the report be responsible for my symptoms?
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Glad to have you back.
A wrong posture or chronic degeneration of the cervical vertebral column can cause occipital neuralgia. But there is no reason for surgery. The main treatment is the above-mentioned medication. Nothing serious is going on. So, try to relax and do not worry about it.
I hope this helps you.
Thank you for consulting me.
You can always come back and reach me at icliniq.com.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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