Published on: 7/4/2025
Can cervicogenic headaches cause light sensitivity and how can it be managed?
It is not common for cervicogenic headaches to cause light sensitivity. It is more common for migraines to cause light sensitivity. Some first steps to manage light sensitivity are to turn off lights and/or use sunglasses. Treatment of the headaches causing light sensitivity will depend on the type of headache.
Explanation
Cervicogenic headaches are headaches that start from problems in the neck. It is not typical for cervicogenic headaches to cause light sensitivity. In contrast, it is more common for migraines to cause light sensitivity.
Some first steps to manage light sensitivity are to turn off lights and/or use sunglasses. The treatment of cervicogenic headaches is different for the treatment for migraines and other health conditions that could cause light sensitivity.
Some Ways to Manage Cervicogenic Headaches:
- Physical Therapy: This is a commonly recommended first step to improving symptoms of cervicogenic headaches. A doctor can help refer you to a physical therapist specialized in physical therapy for cervicogenic headache.
- Other Options for Pain Relief: Medications and/or local injections might be useful to help with pain.
Because the treatment for headache and light sensitivity will differ depending on the exact causes of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for a personalized medical assessment and treatment plan.
(References)
- Vanagaite Vingen J, & Stovner LJ. (1998). Photophobia and phonophobia in tension-type and .... Cephalalgia : an international journal of headache, 9731934.
- Sjaastad O, & Bovim G. (1991). Cervicogenic headache. The differentiation from common .... Functional neurology, 1916461.
- Pfaffenrath V. (1989). [Cervicogenic headache. An over- or underdiagnosed .... Fortschritte der Medizin, 2651254.
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