Does Head Size Increase with Age? Your Concerns

Does head size increase with age?

Hello, Dr.
Chou:
I have been troubled by a problem that is not exactly a hidden issue, which seems to be getting worse as I age.
Since I was young, I have felt that my head is quite large, and I have always suspected that there might be something wrong with the structure of my skull.
It seems to be larger than most people's, and as I grew older, it became more pronounced.
Not only is my head large, but I also feel like my eyes are bulging out.
My colleagues often comment that there is something unusual about me and suggest that I should see a doctor.
However, I am unsure which specialty to consult.
I would like to ask if there might be an issue with my cranial structure and whether I should get an X-ray to check for any abnormalities.
Additionally, I have a question regarding my wife.
She often feels that I am staring at other people, especially women, focusing on their chests, which makes her very unhappy.
I try to explain that I am not staring, but she insists that my eyes appear bulging, as if I am excited by what I see.
It feels like I can't clear my name no matter what I say.
What should I do?

You Yu De Nan Ren, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/05/23

Dr. Zhou Lizhi reply Orthopedics

1.
The proportion of the head is largest in children, and while some individuals may have larger heads as they grow, continuous growth should raise concerns about various diseases, primarily endocrine disorders.

2.
Protruding eyes can mainly be attributed to two causes: severe myopia or hyperthyroidism, with most cases being hereditary.
If anyone has concerns, they should seek examination at a medical facility.

Reply Date: 2008/05/23

More Info

When it comes to head size and its relationship with age, it is important to understand that while the human skull does undergo changes throughout life, significant increases in head size in adulthood are not typical. Generally, the majority of skull growth occurs during childhood and adolescence, with the cranial sutures fusing and the head reaching its adult size by the late teenage years, around 18 years of age. After this point, the skull typically does not grow larger, although some individuals may experience changes in head shape due to various factors.

In your case, feeling that your head is getting larger as you age could be influenced by several factors. One possibility is the perception of head size relative to body changes. As people age, they may gain weight or experience changes in body composition, which can alter how they perceive their head size. Additionally, certain medical conditions, particularly those related to hormonal imbalances or cranial abnormalities, could lead to changes in head shape or size. For instance, conditions such as acromegaly, which is caused by excess growth hormone, can lead to an increase in bone size, including the skull.

Regarding your concern about your eyes appearing to protrude, this can be attributed to several factors. One common cause is thyroid eye disease, often associated with hyperthyroidism, where inflammation and swelling behind the eyes can cause them to bulge. Other potential causes could include high myopia (nearsightedness) or even anatomical variations that are hereditary. If you have noticed a significant change in the appearance of your eyes, it would be prudent to consult an ophthalmologist or an endocrinologist to rule out any underlying conditions.

As for your worries about how others perceive your gaze, particularly your wife’s concerns, it is essential to communicate openly. Sometimes, the way we perceive our own actions can differ from how others interpret them. If your eyes appear to protrude, it might give the impression that you are staring, even if that is not your intention. Engaging in open dialogue with your wife about this can help alleviate misunderstandings.

If you are considering whether to undergo imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in head and neck conditions, such as a neurologist or a craniofacial surgeon. They can assess your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and determine if imaging is necessary to evaluate your skull structure or any other concerns.

In summary, while head size does not typically increase significantly after adolescence, changes in perception, body composition, or underlying medical conditions can influence how we view our head size and facial features. If you have ongoing concerns about your head size, eye appearance, or any associated symptoms, seeking a comprehensive evaluation from a qualified medical professional is the best course of action. They can provide you with tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific situation.

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