Unilateral Scalp Numbness: Causes and When to Seek Help

Q: Unilateral Scalp Numbness: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello： Based on your description, it may be necessary to consider cervical spine disorders, as the likelihood of intracranial hemorrhage is relatively low. <br>External factors such as traffic accidents, falls, head impacts against hard objects, or excessive force during cervical

Unilateral scalp numbness?

Hello, doctor.
Due to my work, I often have to sit for long periods and I also have a habit of staying up late.
Additionally, I have iron deficiency anemia.
Recently, I've been experiencing sudden numbness on the right side of my scalp, occurring 5 to 10 times a day, each episode lasting only a few seconds before resolving.
The numbness occurs in the same spot on my scalp and has happened while sitting or walking.
I would like to know the possible causes and whether I need to seek medical attention for a detailed examination.

Ms. Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/08

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: Based on your description, it may be necessary to consider cervical spine disorders, as the likelihood of intracranial hemorrhage is relatively low.
External factors such as traffic accidents, falls, head impacts against hard objects, or excessive force during cervical rotation can lead to cervical instability, dislocation, and cervical disc herniation.
Pathological changes in the cervical spine can cause neck pain, numbness, and stiffness, resulting from compression of nearby nerve roots, which may lead to pain that radiates to the shoulders, arms, and hands, causing discomfort.

Treatment can be divided into medication therapy: When nerves are compressed, an inflammatory response occurs, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used for treatment, as they have both anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can reduce the inflammatory response and alleviate pain.

Physical therapy includes:
1.
Heat therapy: Primarily increases local blood circulation and improves muscle ischemia.
2.
Shortwave and ultrasound therapy: Mainly promotes blood circulation in deeper tissues.
3.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and interferential current therapy: Can provide localized pain relief and alleviate tension in the neck and shoulders.
4.
Cervical traction: Commonly used for degenerative cervical arthritis, disc herniation (cervical osteophytes), with associated nerve root compression, and cervical injuries without fractures or joint instability, where nerve compression is present.
Cervical traction can be utilized for rehabilitation, but X-ray examination should be performed beforehand to confirm joint stability.
Cervical collars: Used to prevent cervical instability and avoid more severe nerve tissue damage, suitable for injuries such as sports injuries, car accidents, or falls that lead to excessive flexion or extension of the cervical spine.

I recommend that you consult with a neurologist or rehabilitation physician to discuss examination and treatment options.
Wishing you good health and peace.

Dr.
Jiang, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/07/08

More Info

Unilateral scalp numbness, particularly when it occurs intermittently and in the same location, can be concerning and warrants further investigation. Given your history of prolonged sitting, late nights, and iron deficiency anemia, several potential causes could be contributing to your symptoms.

1. Nerve Compression or Irritation: One of the most common causes of localized numbness is nerve compression. This can occur due to poor posture, especially if you are sitting for long periods. The muscles and tissues around the neck and scalp can become tense, potentially compressing nerves that supply sensation to the scalp. This could explain why you experience numbness in the same area repeatedly.

2. Cervical Spine Issues: Conditions such as cervical radiculopathy, where a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated, can lead to symptoms that radiate to the scalp. If there are issues with the cervical spine, such as herniated discs or degenerative changes, they could be affecting the nerves that innervate the scalp.

3. Circulatory Issues: Given your iron deficiency anemia, it’s possible that reduced blood flow or oxygenation to certain areas could lead to transient numbness. Anemia can affect overall circulation, and if there are any vascular issues, they could manifest as numbness in specific areas.

4. Migraine or Other Headaches: Some types of headaches, particularly migraines, can cause sensory disturbances, including numbness or tingling in specific areas of the scalp. If you have a history of migraines, this could be a potential cause.

5. Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins, particularly B vitamins (like B12), can lead to neurological symptoms, including numbness. If your diet is lacking in these essential nutrients, it could contribute to your symptoms.

6. Anxiety or Stress: Psychological factors can also play a role in physical symptoms. Stress and anxiety can lead to muscle tension and changes in sensation, which might explain the numbness you are experiencing.

When to Seek Help
Given that your symptoms are occurring frequently and are localized, it would be prudent to seek medical attention. Here are some specific reasons to consult a healthcare professional:
- Duration and Frequency: If the numbness persists or increases in frequency, it’s important to get evaluated.

- Associated Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, headaches, or changes in vision, you should seek immediate medical attention.

- Impact on Daily Life: If the numbness is affecting your ability to work or perform daily activities, it’s a sign that further investigation is needed.

Recommended Steps
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Start with your primary care physician, who can perform a thorough evaluation and may refer you to a neurologist if necessary.

2. Diagnostic Tests: Depending on your physician's assessment, they may recommend imaging studies (like an MRI of the cervical spine) or nerve conduction studies to evaluate for nerve compression or other neurological issues.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: In the meantime, consider adjusting your work environment to promote better posture, take regular breaks to stretch, and ensure you are maintaining a balanced diet to address any nutritional deficiencies.

In conclusion, while unilateral scalp numbness can have various causes, it is essential to take it seriously, especially given your symptoms' frequency and your medical history. Seeking professional evaluation will help determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

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