What have you tried to reduce any strain on your upper neck?

Any icing, physical therapy of any kind, chiro, osteo, posture changes ?

I have had subtle upper neck problems for almost 2 decades but never experienced [There is also an overwhelming feeling of inflammation, extreme heaviness and sometimes like a burning sensation in my upper neck/occipital area that seems to be stemming from two areas on either side of my upper neck but causing the sensation throughout the whole area.]

I can't picture what 'an overwhelming feeling of inflammation, extreme heaviness and sometimes like a burning sensation' can be. From what it appears you mean is you sense this in your mind, not with touching the skin and area.

I just get pinching and grating. Rarely a feeling of warmth.