Unexplained Bump on the Back of the Head: When to Seek Medical Attention

A sudden protrusion at the back of the head?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about a change in the shape of my occipital region; there is a protrusion.
Over the past year, I have also noticed changes in my vision, as my field of view seems to have expanded, making things that once appeared large seem smaller.
Additionally, I feel that my bones are becoming wider, and sometimes my head feels swollen.
My thoughts have also become unclear, and I often forget things.
Should I seek medical attention for these symptoms?

Vivi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/27

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Ms.
ViVI,
You mentioned that "your vision has changed over the past year, and the range of what you see feels larger; things that once seemed quite large now appear smaller...
Your thoughts also seem unclear, and you often forget things..." I wonder if you are experiencing headaches? Sometimes, migraines can be accompanied by visual symptoms.
The aura associated with migraines can present as visual disturbances, such as seeing stars or lightning-like flashes, as well as blurred or distorted vision.
These are all signs of a migraine aura.
A few minutes after the aura appears, you may experience tingling, weakness, or numbness in your face, hands, or legs.
During the attack, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, photophobia, phonophobia, and pallor may occur.
After the aura subsides, you may experience severe, unilateral throbbing pain in your head.
These migraine symptoms can typically last for several hours, and in some cases, up to 2-3 days.
If your symptoms persist and are not accompanied by headaches, I recommend consulting an ophthalmologist to check for any refractive errors.
If headaches are present, it would be advisable to see a neurologist for evaluation and discussion.
However, due to the recent increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases, please ensure to practice self-protection, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to the new preventive measures when seeking medical care.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions further! Wishing you good health and safety.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Tao Medical Center

Reply Date: 2022/04/27

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of concerning symptoms, including a noticeable change in the shape of the back of your head, visual changes, a sensation of swelling in your head, and cognitive difficulties such as forgetfulness. These symptoms warrant careful consideration and potentially prompt medical evaluation.

Firstly, the presence of a bump on the back of your head that has changed in shape could be indicative of several conditions. It may be a benign growth, such as a lipoma (a fatty tumor), or it could be related to changes in the bone structure, such as a bone spur or other bony growths. However, it is essential to rule out more serious conditions, such as a cyst or even a more significant issue like a tumor.

The visual changes you describe, where objects appear smaller and your field of vision seems altered, could be related to neurological changes. This could be due to increased intracranial pressure, which might also explain the sensation of swelling in your head. Increased pressure can affect how your brain functions, leading to cognitive issues like forgetfulness and confusion.
Given these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Here are some steps you should consider:
1. Neurological Evaluation: A visit to a neurologist is advisable. They can perform a thorough neurological examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to assess the brain and surrounding structures. These imaging studies can help identify any abnormalities that may be causing your symptoms.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any other associated factors (like headaches, dizziness, or changes in mood). This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in making a diagnosis.

3. Consider Other Specialists: Depending on the findings from your initial evaluation, you may also need to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist if there are concerns about your vision or if there are any auditory symptoms.
4. Emergency Attention: If you experience any acute changes, such as severe headaches, sudden vision loss, weakness in any part of your body, or confusion, seek emergency medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires urgent care.

5. Lifestyle Factors: While waiting for your appointment, consider lifestyle factors that may be contributing to your symptoms. Ensure you are getting adequate sleep, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy diet. Sometimes, lifestyle changes can help alleviate some cognitive symptoms.

In summary, your symptoms are concerning and should not be ignored. It is essential to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and to receive appropriate treatment. Early intervention can be crucial in managing any potential issues effectively.

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