Is It Normal to Have Soft Spots on the Head in Adults?

Is it normal for the top of the head to feel soft?

Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire on behalf of my mother.
When she was young, she suffered a concussion to the back of her head, and as she has aged, she frequently experiences headaches.
In 2003, she had a cranial ultrasound at Mackay Memorial Hospital, and the results were unremarkable.
Recently, we noticed a soft, sunken area on her forehead, less than two centimeters from the center.
Isn't the skull supposed to be hard? She is not an infant.
Is this normal? Initially, we felt only one, but soon we discovered another one nearby, both about the size of a thumb pad.
Due to the new health insurance regulations, when we visited the clinic, the doctor said it was normal?! However, many people do not have this condition, so how can it be considered normal? What type of examination should be done for this? Thank you for taking the time to read this message!

Xiao Pei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/08/09

Dr. Liu Jinyong reply Family Medicine

We sincerely apologize, but the situation you described requires a detailed examination.
Therefore, please visit a medical center or teaching hospital to see a neurologist for evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2005/08/09

More Info

It is understandable to be concerned about the presence of soft spots or depressions on the head, especially in an adult. In general, the human skull is composed of several bones that fuse together over time, and while it is normal for infants to have fontanelles (soft spots), these typically close as a child grows. However, in adults, the appearance of soft spots or depressions can be indicative of various conditions, and it is essential to approach this matter with caution.

The soft areas you describe on your mother's forehead could potentially be due to several factors. One possibility is that they are related to previous trauma, such as the head injury she experienced in childhood. Trauma can lead to changes in the bone structure, including localized areas of thinning or depression. Additionally, conditions such as osteitis or osteomyelitis, which involve inflammation or infection of the bone, could also result in soft spots. Another consideration is the possibility of a benign growth or cyst that may feel soft to the touch.

It is also worth noting that the presence of soft spots could be associated with underlying conditions such as hydrocephalus, where there is an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, leading to increased pressure and potential changes in the skull. However, this is less common and would typically present with other symptoms, such as headaches, vision changes, or cognitive difficulties.

Given your mother's history of frequent headaches and the recent discovery of these soft areas, it is crucial to seek further evaluation. While the doctor at the clinic may have deemed it normal, it is advisable to consult a specialist, such as a neurologist or a neurosurgeon, who can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI of the brain. These imaging techniques can provide valuable insights into the structure of the skull and any underlying issues that may be contributing to her symptoms.

In summary, while some variations in skull shape can be benign, the combination of soft spots, a history of head trauma, and recurrent headaches warrants further investigation. It is essential to advocate for your mother's health and ensure she receives a comprehensive evaluation to rule out any serious conditions. Early diagnosis and intervention can be crucial in managing any potential issues effectively.

Similar Q&A

Soft Spot on Head: Understanding Symptoms and When to Seek Help

The top of my head feels soft to the touch, similar to braised pork, but there are no protrusions and I haven't had any falls. Recently, I've been experiencing this for several days, and I feel pain in my head when exerting myself or using the restroom. Could this be a ...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! It is recommended to see a neurologist, and please ask the doctor to check for any lumps. Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Soft Bump on Head: What It Is and Should You Remove It?

There is a soft lump on my head that I've had since childhood. It is not painful or itchy, has a dark purple color, and is wrinkled on the surface. I'm not sure what it is, and it doesn't affect my daily life, but should it be removed?

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
You need to understand that without actually seeing the lesion, I cannot provide you with effective advice.

Understanding Small Hard Bumps on the Scalp: Possible Causes and Concerns

Hello doctor, about 5.6 years ago during middle school, I had a round patch of hair loss on the top of my head. The bald area has a slightly raised, firm lump with a diameter of about 4.5 centimeters. I didn't pay much attention to it at the time and only consulted a dermato...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! It is recommended to consult a general surgeon and undergo an ultrasound evaluation. Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you!

Understanding Soft Bumps at the Back of the Head: When to Seek Surgical Advice

Hello, doctor. There is a groove at the junction of the back of my head and neck, located in the middle line connecting to my right ear. I can feel a soft mass about half a finger width wide when I touch it behind my hair. Pressing it does not cause significant pain, and the inte...

Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery
This sounds more like lymphadenopathy, and it is advisable to have a surgeon evaluate it.