Scalp Tingling and Nausea: Neurological Symptoms in Tech Workers

Numbness in the scalp at the back of the head accompanied by nausea and a desire to vomit?

Hello Doctor: I am a software engineer, so I spend most of my time sitting in front of a computer at the office.
Recently, I have been experiencing a tingling sensation on my scalp accompanied by nausea and a feeling of wanting to vomit, which usually occurs in the afternoon.
However, I do not feel any headache; I just sometimes notice a tightness in my neck and the back of my head along with the tingling sensation.
These symptoms began to appear the day after I experienced severe headaches, which I believe were the worst I have ever felt in my life.
This occurred after taking medication for angina, which lists headaches as a side effect.
The severe headache happened right after I took the medication, but after sleeping the next day, I felt fine.
A few days later, I started experiencing the symptoms I described above, with frequent tingling in the back of my head and accompanying nausea.
Doctor, are these symptoms dangerous? What could they indicate? P.S.
I tend to be an anxious and nervous person.
Thank you.

Xiao Z, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/05

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, sublingual nitroglycerin can rapidly dilate the heart's blood vessels, but it may also cause vascular headaches, which can be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, photophobia, phonophobia, and pallor.
Typically, these symptoms will resolve after the medication takes effect.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Best regards, Taoyuan Medical Center, Department of Neurology.

Reply Date: 2017/05/05

More Info

Your symptoms of scalp tingling and nausea, particularly in the context of your profession as a software engineer, raise several important considerations. Given the sedentary nature of your work, prolonged periods of sitting, and the potential for poor posture, it is not uncommon for individuals in tech-related fields to experience various neurological symptoms, including those you described.

Firstly, the tingling sensation in your scalp could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, which can lead to nerve compression or irritation. This is especially relevant if you are sitting for long periods without proper ergonomic support. Poor posture can lead to muscle tightness, particularly in the upper trapezius and cervical muscles, which may contribute to sensations of tingling or numbness in the scalp.

Additionally, the nausea you are experiencing could be linked to several factors, including anxiety, medication side effects, or even vestibular issues. Since you mentioned that you have a history of heart problems and are taking medication for angina, it is crucial to consider the side effects of these medications. Some cardiovascular drugs can cause dizziness, nausea, and headaches, which might explain your symptoms. If you experienced severe headaches after taking your medication, it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider, as it may indicate that the medication needs to be adjusted or changed.

Moreover, the combination of scalp tingling and nausea could also be indicative of anxiety or stress, particularly if you are prone to anxiety. Anxiety can manifest physically in various ways, including muscle tension, gastrointestinal disturbances, and neurological symptoms like tingling. The fact that these symptoms tend to occur in the afternoon may suggest a cumulative effect of stress and fatigue throughout the workday.

It is also worth considering the possibility of a migraine variant, especially since you mentioned a history of severe headaches. Migraines can sometimes present with neurological symptoms, including tingling, without the classic headache component. However, the absence of a headache does not rule out the possibility of a migraine aura or other migraine-related phenomena.

In terms of danger, while your symptoms may not be immediately life-threatening, they warrant further evaluation. It is essential to rule out any underlying neurological conditions or complications related to your heart medication. I recommend scheduling an appointment with a neurologist to discuss your symptoms in detail. They may suggest diagnostic tests, such as an MRI or nerve conduction studies, to assess for any underlying issues.

In the meantime, consider implementing ergonomic adjustments to your workspace, taking regular breaks to stretch and move, and practicing relaxation techniques to manage anxiety. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can also help alleviate some of the nausea you are experiencing.

In summary, while your symptoms may not be immediately alarming, they are significant enough to warrant further investigation. It is crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment for your symptoms.

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