Tension in the Temples: Focus Issues and Neurological Concerns - Neurosurgery

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Tension in the temples and cognitive impairment?


I have been experiencing tightness in my temples for a long time, making it difficult for me to concentrate and remember things.
I often forget things and my thought processes are slow.
Sometimes, I become fixated on a problem and cannot find a solution.
I also feel a burning sensation in the back of my head, which originates from an area that was previously impacted (I sustained a severe blow to the back of my head in second grade and did not seek medical attention; as an adult, I discovered that the shape of my skull in that area is deformed and uneven).
Could this burning sensation possibly be caused by necrotic tissue? My shoulders and neck are constantly tense, and when I try to clear my mind, my head and neck suddenly feel like a tightly wound rubber band that is released, causing a jolt.
Is it possible that my nerves are being compressed? My scalp often itches, and I occasionally have small inflammations.
Sometimes, I also perceive noise in my brain, and the nerves near my spine are very sensitive.
When I feel cold, I tend to sneeze continuously four to five times or more.
Could the trauma to my brain also contribute to an allergic predisposition?

Xiao Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/09/03

Dr. Zhang Yuanyi reply Neurosurgery


Dear Xiao Li,
Hello, please visit the neurology outpatient clinic for treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Zhang Yuanyi, Attending Physician, Department of Neurosurgery, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2011/09/03

More Info


Your concerns regarding the tension in your temples, focus issues, and neurological symptoms are quite complex and warrant a thorough understanding. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of physical and psychological symptoms that could be interrelated.

Firstly, the tightness in your temples and difficulty concentrating can be indicative of tension-type headaches, which are often associated with stress, anxiety, and muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. Chronic tension in these areas can lead to a cycle of discomfort that affects cognitive function, making it harder to focus and remember things. The fact that you have a history of trauma to the back of your head may also play a role in your current symptoms. Traumatic brain injuries can lead to long-term changes in brain function, including cognitive deficits and emotional disturbances.

The burning sensation you describe in the back of your head, particularly in an area that was previously injured, raises concerns about potential nerve damage or irritation. It is possible that the injury you sustained in elementary school could have led to changes in the brain's structure or function, which might contribute to your current symptoms. While it is less common for dead tissue to cause burning sensations, it is important to consider that any structural changes in the brain can lead to abnormal sensations.

Your mention of tightness in the neck and shoulders, along with the sensation of a "twisting" or "snapping" feeling when you try to relax, suggests that you may be experiencing muscle tension or spasms. This can be a result of chronic stress or anxiety, which often manifests physically. The tightness in your neck and shoulders can also lead to referred pain in the head, contributing to headaches and discomfort.

The itching and inflammation of your scalp, along with the sensitivity of the nerves near your spine, could indicate a dermatological issue or a reaction to stress. Stress can exacerbate skin conditions, leading to increased itching and inflammation. Additionally, the sensitivity of your nerves may be a sign of heightened nervous system activity, which can occur in response to stress or anxiety.

Regarding your question about whether previous brain trauma could lead to allergic reactions, it is not directly correlated. However, stress and anxiety can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to allergies and other conditions. If your body is under constant stress, it may react more strongly to allergens, leading to increased symptoms.

In summary, your symptoms appear to be multifaceted, involving both physical and psychological components. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can conduct a thorough evaluation, including neurological assessments and possibly imaging studies, to determine the underlying causes of your symptoms. Treatment may involve a combination of physical therapy to address muscle tension, cognitive-behavioral therapy to help manage anxiety and improve focus, and possibly medication if deemed necessary.

In the meantime, consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or gentle stretching exercises to help alleviate some of the tension you are experiencing. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, can also support your overall well-being and potentially improve your symptoms.

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