Persistent Head Pain and Uncontrolled Movements - Neurology

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Headache


I often experience a feeling of pressure and pain on the left side of my head, as if there is a foreign object present.
This phenomenon has persisted for 2.5 years.
I had a previous impact to the back of my head, and I'm unsure if it has any effect.
Additionally, sometimes my head or legs will involuntarily twitch or shake, and I don't know the cause.
Could you please provide some answers regarding these two issues? Thank you.

maggie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/02/28

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology


There are many causes of headaches, ranging from tension-type headaches to brain tumors, and it is not possible to determine the cause from such a simple description.
Additionally, since you are experiencing involuntary movements in your legs and head, it is important to assess the nature of these movements.
I recommend visiting a neurology clinic for a physical examination.

Reply Date: 2004/02/28

More Info


Persistent head pain, especially when accompanied by sensations of pressure or the feeling of a foreign object, can be concerning and warrants a thorough evaluation. Given your description of a left-sided headache that has persisted for 2.5 years, along with episodes of involuntary movements or twitching in your head or legs, there are several potential explanations to consider.

Firstly, the sensation of pressure or a "lump" in the head could be indicative of several conditions. One possibility is tension-type headaches, which are often characterized by a feeling of tightness or pressure around the head. These headaches can be exacerbated by stress, poor posture, or prolonged periods of sitting, especially in front of a computer. Another possibility is that you may be experiencing a form of migraine, which can sometimes present with atypical symptoms, including sensations of pressure or discomfort localized to one side of the head.

The history of head trauma you mentioned is also significant. If you experienced a head injury, even if it seemed minor at the time, it could potentially lead to post-traumatic headache syndromes or other neurological issues. In some cases, head injuries can result in structural changes or irritations in the brain that may manifest as chronic pain or discomfort.

Regarding the involuntary movements or twitching you described, this could be related to a neurological condition known as myoclonus, which involves sudden, brief involuntary muscle jerks. Myoclonus can occur for various reasons, including neurological disorders, metabolic imbalances, or as a side effect of certain medications. It is essential to differentiate between benign causes of twitching and those that may indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as epilepsy or other movement disorders.

Given the complexity of your symptoms and their duration, it is crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a neurologist. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any structural abnormalities in the brain that could be contributing to your symptoms. Additionally, a thorough neurological examination and possibly an electroencephalogram (EEG) may be warranted to assess for any abnormal brain activity that could explain the involuntary movements.

In the meantime, consider keeping a headache diary to track the frequency, duration, and intensity of your headaches, as well as any associated symptoms or potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action for diagnosis and treatment.

In summary, your persistent left-sided headache and involuntary movements are symptoms that should not be ignored. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the underlying cause and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek medical attention.

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