Cervical Fasciitis and Its Impact on Cerebral Blood Supply

Cervical fasciitis does not directly cause cerebral hypoperfusion, but it can lead to symptoms such as dizziness and headaches that are often mistaken for those of reduced blood flow to the brain. This misdiagnosis can occur because the symptoms mimic those associated with cerebral hypoperfusion, despite the underlying cause being muscular and inflammatory in nature.

Understanding the Symptoms of Cervical Fasciitis

Cervical fasciitis can cause tension in the muscles of the neck and head, leading to chronic inflammation. This condition often results in mild headaches and can cause the galea aponeurotica— a layer of connective tissue beneath the scalp — to contract. These physical reactions may lead to a sensation of heaviness in the head, with patients frequently reporting persistent dizziness, a feeling of mental fog, and a general lack of mental clarity throughout the day.

Distinguishing From Cerebral Hypoperfusion

While these symptoms are similar to those of cerebral hypoperfusion, treatments aimed at improving blood flow — such as vasodilators or blood-activating and stasis-resolving medications — often prove ineffective. In such cases, a thorough physical examination is essential. Localized tenderness upon palpation of the head and neck muscles, combined with conditions like cervical spondylosis or osteophyte formation, can point toward a diagnosis of cervical myofascial inflammation.

Treatment Options for Cervical Myofascial Inflammation

For effective management, medications such as carisoprodol compound or eperisone can be used to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation. These treatments aim to alleviate the muscular tension and inflammation responsible for the discomfort and neurological-like symptoms experienced by patients.