Head Numbness: Common Causes and When to Seek Help

Numbness and discomfort in the head?

Hello, doctor.
A few nights ago, I woke up in the middle of the night due to numbness in my head, and I still feel a bit numb today.
I experience unexplained headaches every year at intervals, but taking Tylenol usually helps.
I have developed bumps on my scalp that resemble acne, and if I don’t wash my hair for a day, it becomes very itchy.
Occasionally, I feel dizzy and nauseous.
I plan to go to the hospital for an examination, but in Nantou, there have been reports of misdiagnoses at our local hospital.
Therefore, I wanted to consult with you here first to prepare for my in-person visit.
Thank you, doctor, and I wish you health and happiness.

Tie Mu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/06/22

Dr. Lin Zijing reply Neurology

Numbness in the head during sleep is most commonly caused by pressure on the head, which impedes proper blood circulation, leading to the sensation of numbness.
Therefore, it is important to check for any issues with the pillow.
If the pillow is too firm or contains hard lumps, it can contribute to head numbness while sleeping.
Dizziness or headaches should be evaluated based on the timing of the episodes, location, headache patterns, frequency, impact on daily life, and any accompanying symptoms, as these factors can assist in making a diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2010/06/22

More Info

Head numbness can be a concerning symptom, and understanding its common causes is essential for determining when to seek medical help. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing episodes of head numbness, occasional headaches, and other related symptoms such as itching and dizziness. Let's break down these symptoms and explore potential causes and when you should consider consulting a healthcare professional.

Common Causes of Head Numbness
1. Nerve Compression or Irritation: Numbness in the head can sometimes be caused by nerve compression or irritation, often related to posture or muscle tension. For instance, if you spend long hours in front of a computer, poor posture can lead to tension in the neck and shoulders, which may compress nerves that supply sensation to the head.

2. Migraine: Migraines can present with various symptoms, including numbness or tingling in the head, especially if they are accompanied by aura. Auras are sensory disturbances that can occur before or during a migraine attack, and they can include visual changes, numbness, or tingling sensations.

3. Tension-Type Headaches: These are the most common type of headaches and can cause a sensation of tightness or pressure in the head. They may also be associated with neck and shoulder tension, which can lead to numbness.

4. Dermatological Issues: The presence of bumps or acne-like lesions on your scalp, along with itching, could indicate a dermatological condition such as folliculitis or seborrheic dermatitis. These conditions can cause localized irritation and discomfort, potentially contributing to sensations of numbness or pain.

5. Systemic Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or vitamin deficiencies (especially B12) can lead to neurological symptoms, including numbness. If you have any underlying health conditions, it’s important to consider their potential impact on your symptoms.

6. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors can also manifest as physical symptoms, including numbness and tingling. Stress and anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which may cause temporary changes in sensation.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention if:
- Persistent Symptoms: If the numbness persists or worsens over time, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. Persistent numbness may indicate an underlying neurological issue that requires evaluation.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as severe headaches, vision changes, weakness in other parts of the body, or difficulty speaking, you should seek immediate medical attention, as these could indicate a more serious condition.

- Changes in Sensation: If you notice changes in sensation, such as increased numbness or tingling spreading to other areas, this warrants further investigation.

- History of Head Trauma: If you have a history of head trauma, even if it seemed minor, and you are experiencing new symptoms, it is crucial to get evaluated to rule out any serious complications.

Conclusion
While occasional head numbness and headaches can be benign, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Keeping a symptom diary, noting when the numbness occurs, its duration, and any associated factors (like stress or posture) can be helpful for your healthcare provider. Given your concerns about misdiagnosis in your local healthcare setting, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or consult a specialist, such as a neurologist, who can provide a thorough evaluation and appropriate diagnostic tests if necessary.

In the meantime, consider lifestyle modifications such as improving your posture, taking regular breaks from screen time, and managing stress through relaxation techniques. These changes may help alleviate some of your symptoms. Remember, your health is paramount, and seeking professional advice is always a wise decision when you have concerns.

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