Persistent Head Pressure in Children: A Neurological Perspective

Children experiencing persistent head heaviness?

A third-grade child frequently complains of dizziness, describing a persistent feeling of pressure in the center of the upper part of the brain for the past four months.
He does not experience true vertigo but feels a constant dullness that never ceases.
He mentions that this sensation began as a mild pressure about a week long ago, which gradually intensified and has since remained constant.
The child is active and has a good appetite, but he feels discomfort due to the persistent headache.
He enjoys using his brain for calculations.
Traditional Chinese medicine suggests that his neck and shoulder stiffness may be causing the dizziness, but the child has never experienced fluctuations in his symptoms; it has been a continuous state of dizziness.
During this period, he also developed a red vascular lesion on his face resembling an acne spot, which has since been treated.

JJ, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/29

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

I can't say for sure that there are no issues, but if the activity level is good and appetite is normal, it is commonly seen as tension-type headaches.
If the symptoms show a trend of becoming more severe, I would recommend scheduling an appointment with a pediatric neurologist.
Alternatively, you could observe if the headaches disappear for a period during holidays or vacations when there is more relaxation, which could help determine the cause.

Reply Date: 2016/03/29

More Info

Understanding persistent head pressure in children can be quite complex, especially when considering the various potential causes and the child's overall health and development. In the case of a third-grade child experiencing constant pressure in the central part of the head for four months, it is essential to approach this situation with a thorough neurological perspective.

Firstly, it is important to differentiate between various types of headaches and head pressure. The symptoms described—persistent pressure without accompanying dizziness—could suggest a few possibilities. One common cause in children is tension-type headaches, which can manifest as a feeling of tightness or pressure in the head. These headaches are often related to stress, anxiety, or muscle tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders. Given that the child has been using their brain intensively for tasks like math, it is plausible that mental strain could contribute to their symptoms.

Another potential cause could be related to postural issues or musculoskeletal problems, especially if the child has been reported to have stiff shoulders and neck. Poor posture while studying or engaging in activities can lead to tension in the neck muscles, which can, in turn, cause referred pain or pressure sensations in the head. This aligns with the traditional Chinese medicine perspective that suggests a blockage of "qi" or energy flow due to muscle tightness.

However, it is crucial to rule out more serious underlying conditions. Persistent head pressure that does not fluctuate and has been ongoing for months warrants further investigation. Conditions such as increased intracranial pressure, which can be caused by various factors including infections, tumors, or other neurological issues, should be considered. Symptoms such as persistent headaches, changes in vision, or neurological deficits would be red flags that necessitate immediate medical evaluation.

In this case, a comprehensive neurological examination is recommended. This would typically include:
1. Detailed Medical History: Understanding the onset, duration, and characteristics of the symptoms, as well as any associated symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or changes in behavior.

2. Physical and Neurological Examination: Assessing the child's overall health, neurological function, and any signs of increased intracranial pressure.

3. Imaging Studies: If indicated, imaging studies such as an MRI or CT scan may be necessary to rule out structural abnormalities in the brain.

4. Referral to Specialists: Depending on the findings, referrals to pediatric neurologists or other specialists may be warranted for further evaluation and management.

In addition to medical evaluation, addressing lifestyle factors can also be beneficial. Encouraging regular breaks during study sessions, promoting good posture, and incorporating relaxation techniques may help alleviate some of the tension and pressure the child is experiencing.
Lastly, while the child’s recent experience with a red vascular lesion (hemangioma) on the face has been resolved, it is important to monitor any new skin changes or symptoms, as they could provide additional clues regarding the child’s overall health.

In conclusion, while the persistent head pressure in this child may be related to tension or postural issues, it is essential to conduct a thorough evaluation to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Early intervention and appropriate management can significantly improve the child's quality of life and prevent potential complications.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Persistent Head Pressure: Causes and Solutions

For about two years, I have been experiencing a sensation of discomfort in my head, primarily in the back and on both sides, which feels dull and swollen. I also have difficulty concentrating and occasionally experience mild sharp pains. This sensation occurs daily and is general...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
Atypical head symptoms, recommended for evaluation in a neurology outpatient clinic.

Persistent Head Pressure and Nausea: Possible Neurological Concerns

Hello Doctor, for the past couple of days, I have been feeling a persistent pressure in my head, almost as if a specific small area in my brain (approximately the middle right side) is covered. I have been unable to muster any energy throughout the day and have been experiencing ...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, Sir: You mentioned feeling lethargic all day and experiencing constant dry heaving (almost feeling like vomiting every 10 minutes), and that you suddenly woke up after less than three hours of sleep tonight... It may be necessary to consider intracranial structural abnorma...

Understanding Chronic Head Pressure: Causes and Solutions

Hello Dr. Yeh, I experience daily symptoms of head heaviness and pressure, as if I am constantly in a cold state, which affects my memory and mental clarity. It has been particularly distressing during the summer and has lasted for seven to eight years. I didn't pay much att...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Hello, your headache symptoms are likely due to stress, and the hot weather may also be a contributing factor. Try to relax a bit more and engage in regular exercise; this should help improve your condition.

Understanding Chronic Headaches: Causes and Concerns in Neurology

Hello doctor, I would like to ask a question on behalf of my friend. My friend was hit on the head multiple times with objects like sticks and belts by family members during childhood. Since middle school, she has been experiencing headaches, which have persisted for about eight ...

Dr. Zeng Kongyan reply Neurology
Hello: In response to your question, there are many causes of headaches. Mild cases may include tension-type headaches or tendonitis, while more severe cases could involve brain tumors, encephalitis, or intracranial hemorrhage. Migraines are commonly seen in younger individuals. ...