Recent Blog Articles

Postpartum anxiety is invisible, but common and treatable

The popularity of microdosing of psychedelics: What does the science say?

Pouring from an empty cup? Three ways to refill emotionally

Is pregnancy safe for everyone?

New pediatric guidelines on obesity in children and teens

Screening tests may save lives — so when is it time to stop?

Natural disasters strike everywhere: Ways to help protect your health

The case of the bad placebo

Do we feel pain more at night?

If you use cannabis, do it safely
Pain
When to seek immediate medical attention for neck pain
For most neck pain, it’s okay to try self-care strategies before seeking medical help. However, if your neck pain is so severe you can’t sit still, or if it is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, contact a medical professional right away:
Fever, headache, and neck stiffness. This triad of symptoms might indicate bacterial meningitis, an infection of the spinal cord and brain covering that requires prompt treatment with antibiotics.
Pain traveling down one arm, especially if the arm or hand is weak, numb, or tingling. This might indicate that a herniated cervical disc is pressing on a nerve.
Loss of bowel or bladder control. This might indicate pressure on the spinal cord, needing immediate attention.
Extreme instability. If you can suddenly tilt your head forward or back much farther than usual, it might indicate a fracture or torn ligaments. This usually occurs only after significant impact or injury, and is more likely to be detected by your doctor or on an x-ray than by your own perception.
Persistent swollen glands in the neck. Infection or a tumor can cause swollen glands and neck pain.
Chest pain or pressure. A heart attack or inflamed heart muscle can cause neck pain along with more classic heart symptoms.
Image: VioletaStoimenova/Getty Images
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Free Healthbeat Signup
Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!