Head Bumps: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery Tips

Head mass

Hello, last month I was pulled and fell hard on the ground, hitting the back left side of my head directly on the asphalt.
At the moment of impact, I felt very dizzy and couldn't stand up.
When I regained my senses, I noticed a large swelling on the back left side of my head.
I went to seek medical attention a few hours later, and the doctor said it was nothing serious, just a hematoma, along with a small cut.
After resting at home, the next morning when I was about to have breakfast, I vomited and immediately returned to the hospital.
The doctor reassured me that everything was fine, and after resting in the hospital, I went back home.
However, I only vomited that once.
Occasionally, I experience severe headaches, not from the wound, but from my entire head.
Even now, I still have occasional severe headaches, and there is a hard lump on the back left side of my head, about the size of a five-cent coin, which feels very hard and painful to touch.
The original small cut has a bald patch where there is no hair.
I would like to ask the doctor if it is normal to have headaches now? Will the lump go away? Will my hair grow back? Thank you for patiently reading my questions.
🙂

Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/30

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery

Hello! "I have been experiencing occasional severe headaches until now, and I currently have a hard lump about the size of a five-dollar coin on the left back of my head.
It feels very hard and painful to touch.
There is a small area where the original wound is, and there is no hair growing there.
I would like to ask the doctor if it is normal to have headaches now? Will the lump go away? Will the hair grow back?" Head injuries can be acceptable with minor dizziness and pain for 3 to 6 months, but if there is significant dizziness or pain, you should return for medical evaluation.
The lump is likely a hematoma, which will gradually be absorbed; however, there are cases where it does not resolve.
The area without hair indicates that the hair follicles have been damaged, which is a cosmetic concern.
If hair does not grow back after a few months, you should consult a specialist in hair restoration.
Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2018/10/30

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you've been through quite an ordeal with your head injury. Based on your description, it seems you experienced a significant impact to the left back of your head, which resulted in a hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels) and some subsequent symptoms like nausea and headaches. Let's break down your concerns regarding the ongoing pain, the hard lump, and hair regrowth.

Understanding Head Injuries and Symptoms
1. Head Trauma and Symptoms: When you sustain a head injury, especially one that involves a significant impact, it's common to experience symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and even nausea. The initial dizziness and inability to stand after the fall were likely due to the trauma and the body's response to it. The vomiting you experienced the next day could be a result of a concussion, which is a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur even without a loss of consciousness.

2. Hematoma: The hard lump you feel on the back of your head is likely a residual hematoma. Hematomas can take time to resolve, and they may feel hard as they heal. The body gradually reabsorbs the blood, and the lump should decrease in size over time. However, if it remains painful or continues to grow, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider.

3. Headaches: It's not unusual to experience headaches following a head injury. These can be tension-type headaches or migraines triggered by the trauma. If the headaches persist or worsen, or if you experience additional symptoms such as vision changes, confusion, or difficulty with balance, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Persistent headaches after a head injury should be evaluated to rule out any complications, such as post-concussion syndrome or other intracranial issues.

Recovery Tips
- Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest, as your brain needs time to heal. Avoid strenuous activities and give yourself time to recover.

- Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your recovery.

- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help manage headaches, but avoid medications that can thin the blood, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, unless advised by your doctor.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If you notice any changes, such as increased pain, new symptoms, or if the lump does not decrease in size, consult your healthcare provider.

Hair Regrowth
Regarding your concern about hair regrowth in the area where the small wound is located, hair typically grows back after a scalp injury, but the regrowth can depend on several factors, including the extent of the injury and whether the hair follicles were damaged. If the area is healing well and there is no ongoing inflammation or infection, you can expect some regrowth over time. However, it may take several months for hair to return fully.

Conclusion
In summary, while some ongoing symptoms like headaches and the presence of a hard lump can be normal after a significant head injury, it is essential to monitor your condition closely. If you have any concerns about your symptoms or if they worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and safety are paramount, and a healthcare professional can provide the best guidance tailored to your situation. Take care, and I hope you have a smooth recovery!

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