Sudden Sharp Pain in the Head: Causes and Concerns

Sudden sharp pain in a specific area of the head?

Hello, a couple of days ago, I started experiencing an unknown sharp pain on the left side of my scalp.
The frequency is about three times a minute, and it feels like someone is poking me with a needle.
Pulling the nearby hair also causes pain.
What could be the reason for this?

Mr. Zheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/05/20

Dr. Li Zhiyao reply Internal Medicine

Dear Mr.
Zheng,
Headache is merely a symptom, and there are numerous potential causes for it.
A thorough evaluation by a physician is necessary, which includes detailed inquiries about the onset, characteristics, location, duration, frequency of the headache, associated symptoms, prodromal symptoms, and other features, along with a clinical neurological examination to reach a diagnosis.
I recommend that you consult a neurologist for a comprehensive examination to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
However, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following features:
1.
Headaches that worsen with increased abdominal pressure, such as coughing or straining during bowel movements.
2.
Sudden vomiting that is projectile or occurs without nausea.
3.
Accompanied by seizures.
4.
Associated with fever or focal neurological symptoms.
5.
Headaches that wake you up at night.
6.
Headaches that commonly occur in the early morning or at night.
7.
Headaches that begin after the age of fifty.
8.
Headaches that occur only during physical activity.
9.
Changes in the pattern of pre-existing headaches, such as increased frequency or severity.
10.
Gradual confusion or altered consciousness.
11.
Headaches following head trauma.
12.
Headaches accompanied by neck stiffness or photophobia.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2010/05/20

More Info

Sudden sharp pain in the head, especially when localized to a specific area like the left side of the scalp, can be concerning and warrants careful consideration of potential causes. The symptoms you describe—sharp, needle-like pain that occurs intermittently and is exacerbated by touching the hair—could be indicative of several underlying conditions.

One possibility is a type of headache known as "trigeminal neuralgia." This condition is characterized by sudden, severe facial pain that can feel like electric shocks or stabbing sensations. It is often triggered by touch, movement, or even a breeze. The trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face, may become irritated or compressed, leading to these painful episodes. While this condition typically affects the face, it can sometimes present with pain in the scalp.

Another potential cause could be a tension-type headache. These headaches are often described as a tight band around the head and can be associated with muscle tension in the neck and scalp. Stress, poor posture, and prolonged periods of sitting, especially in front of a computer, can contribute to muscle tightness and subsequent headaches. However, the sharp, localized nature of your pain may not align perfectly with typical tension headaches.

Additionally, you may be experiencing a phenomenon known as "allodynia," where normally non-painful stimuli (like touching your hair) become painful. This can occur in various headache disorders, including migraines and post-traumatic headaches, where the nervous system becomes sensitized.

Given your description of the pain being sharp and localized, it is also essential to consider the possibility of a more serious condition, such as a nerve impingement or irritation. If you have a history of head trauma or have experienced any recent injuries, this could be a factor. Conditions like occipital neuralgia, which involves irritation of the occipital nerves at the back of the head, can also lead to sharp, shooting pains in the scalp.

In any case, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as visual disturbances, weakness, numbness, or changes in consciousness, you should seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any structural issues or neurological concerns.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for the sharp pain you are experiencing, including trigeminal neuralgia, tension headaches, or nerve irritation, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific situation. In the meantime, consider keeping a headache diary to track the frequency, duration, and triggers of your pain, as this information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Sudden Sharp Head Pain: Causes and Insights

Hello Doctor: I previously experienced some pain in my head, which was not due to any impact, but rather a sharp, stabbing pain. Recently, this condition has recurred, located approximately at the right posterior part of the skull, not reaching the occipital region. The pain occu...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Hello: If it feels more like neuropathic pain and persists, it is recommended to see a neurologist.

Understanding Sudden Head Pain: When to Seek Neurological Help

Hello, Doctor Gao: Recently, I've been experiencing sudden sharp pain in my left brain and a bit of dizziness. The episodes are not continuous and occur occasionally. Sometimes, I also feel tingling in my scalp. Does this indicate a problem with my brain, and how should I ad...

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
This is likely a type of headache known as ice pick headache, which occurs intermittently for a few minutes to a couple of hours in a specific location. It is mostly benign and typically resolves on its own within a few weeks, without the need for medication, unless it becomes fr...

Sudden Head Pain: Causes and Connections to Stress and Exams

Hello doctor, recently I've been experiencing sudden pain in different areas of my head. Sometimes it even makes me feel dizzy and nauseous. What could be the cause of this? Could it be related to the fact that I have an important exam coming up?

Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology
Dear Chun-Chun, the reason for your condition is likely tension-type headache. It may be helpful to find some coping strategies to alleviate your mood. If the symptoms are too severe, you might consider taking some medication to manage the headache.

Understanding Sudden Head Pain and Numbness: Possible Causes and Concerns

Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I suddenly experienced numbness on the left side of my brain that lasted for a while (I can't remember how long). Last night, the same area had persistent sharp pain for over an hour. I'm not sure what the cause could be. Thank you for your...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Hello: Persistent localized headache requires investigation to determine the cause, which could be due to vascular intracranial lesions or muscle tension. If the pain worsens or does not improve, further examination is necessary.