Headache with a soft texture upon palpation?
The top of my head feels soft to the touch, similar to braised pork, but there are no protrusions and I haven't had any falls.
Recently, I've been experiencing this for several days, and I feel pain in my head when exerting myself or using the restroom.
Could this be a common lipoma? Which department should I consult? I'm really worried.
Jin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/08
Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! It is recommended to see a neurologist, and please ask the doctor to check for any lumps.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!
Reply Date: 2016/09/08
More Info
When it comes to experiencing a soft spot on the head, especially one that feels unusual or concerning, it is essential to approach the situation with caution. The symptoms you describe, such as a soft area on the top of your head that feels like "控肉" (a type of braised pork), along with headaches that occur during physical exertion or straining (like during bowel movements), warrant a thorough evaluation.
Firstly, it is important to understand that the human skull is made up of several bones that are joined together by sutures. In some cases, particularly in infants or young children, the sutures may not have fully fused, leading to soft spots known as fontanelles. However, in adults, a soft spot on the head can be indicative of various conditions, some of which may require medical attention.
One potential cause of a soft area on the head could be a benign condition such as a lipoma, which is a fatty tumor that can develop under the skin. These are generally harmless and do not require treatment unless they become bothersome. However, the presence of headaches, especially those that worsen with exertion, raises the possibility of other underlying issues that should be investigated.
Another concern could be related to increased intracranial pressure, which can occur due to various reasons, including but not limited to, infections, tumors, or other neurological conditions. Symptoms such as headaches that intensify with physical activity, along with the soft area on your head, could suggest that further investigation is necessary to rule out any serious conditions.
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek help from a neurologist or a neurosurgeon. These specialists are trained to evaluate and treat conditions related to the brain and nervous system. They may recommend imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, to assess the structure of your skull and brain, and to determine if there are any abnormalities that need to be addressed.
In the meantime, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any additional symptoms such as vision changes, nausea, vomiting, or if the headaches become severe or persistent, you should seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires urgent care.
In summary, while a soft spot on the head may not always indicate a serious problem, the combination of this symptom with headaches, especially those that worsen with exertion, suggests that a thorough evaluation is necessary. Consulting with a neurologist or neurosurgeon will provide you with the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to neurological symptoms.
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