Painful Bumps at the Back of the Head: When to Seek Help

Occipital bone lump

There are multiple small hard lumps located on the right side of the back of your head, approximately 5 centimeters from your ear, which sometimes cause pain when pressed, while at other times there is no sensation.
Recently, you have been experiencing a dull ache even without touching them, and this has been ongoing for several months with an increasing number of lumps.
What could these symptoms indicate, and should you seek medical attention immediately?

Pei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/19

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

Please schedule an appointment with the neurosurgery outpatient clinic for a physician examination.

Reply Date: 2019/03/19

More Info

When it comes to painful bumps at the back of the head, particularly near the neck, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and awareness of the potential underlying causes. The symptoms you describe—small hard lumps that can be painful when pressed, and a persistent aching sensation—could be indicative of several conditions.
Firstly, these bumps may represent swollen lymph nodes. Lymph nodes can become enlarged due to infections, inflammation, or other immune responses. If you have had any recent infections, such as a cold or flu, this could explain the lymph node swelling. However, if these lumps persist for several months and continue to multiply, it is crucial to seek medical attention to rule out more serious conditions.

Another possibility is the presence of cysts or lipomas. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop under the skin, while lipomas are benign tumors made of fat tissue. Both can be painless or tender, depending on their size and location. If these lumps are indeed cysts or lipomas, they are generally harmless but may require removal if they become bothersome or painful.

Additionally, the bumps could be related to muscle tension or spasms in the neck area. Given that you mentioned experiencing soreness, it is possible that muscle strain or tension could be contributing to your symptoms. Poor posture, prolonged computer use, or stress can lead to muscle tightness, which might manifest as discomfort in the head and neck region.

However, it is important to consider more serious conditions as well. Persistent lumps that are painful, especially if they are increasing in number or size, warrant further investigation. Conditions such as infections (e.g., abscesses), tumors (benign or malignant), or other systemic issues could be at play.
Given that you have been experiencing these symptoms for several months, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A thorough examination, including a physical assessment and possibly imaging studies (like an ultrasound or CT scan), may be necessary to determine the exact nature of these bumps. Blood tests may also be conducted to check for signs of infection or other underlying health issues.

In summary, while there are several benign explanations for the painful bumps you are experiencing, the persistence and increase in number of these lumps suggest that it is time to seek medical advice. Early evaluation can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly, providing peace of mind and appropriate treatment if necessary. Always prioritize your health and do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for concerns that persist or worsen over time.

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