Do you have a tender spot on your head that's especially sensitive to pressure? You might have what's called a scalp tenderness. Scalp tenderness is a common condition that can cause pain, achy sensations, or even headaches.
There are a number of different things that can cause scalp tenderness, including:
- Tension headaches
- Clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism)
- A tight ponytail or other hairstyle that pulls on your hair
- Dandruff or an oily scalp
- Sunburn
Most often, scalp tenderness is due to tension headaches or bruxism. If you have either of these conditions, you might notice that the pain gets worse when you're under stress. If you have bruxism, you might also notice that your teeth are starting to wear down.
If dandruff or an oily scalp is the cause of your scalp tenderness, you might notice that the pain gets worse when you don't shampoo regularly. You might also have itchiness and redness. Sunburn can also cause pain and tenderness.
Treatment for scalp tenderness depends on the underlying cause. If tension headaches are the cause, over-the-counter pain relievers might help. If bruxism is the cause, your dentist can fit you for a mouth guard to wear at night. If dandruff is the cause, antifungal shampoos can help relieve the itchiness and redness.
If your scalp tenderness is due to sunburn, you can use a topical sunscreen to protect your skin. You can also take ibuprofen to help relieve the pain and inflammation. If your scalp tenderness is severe, you should see a doctor.
One potential cause of tender spots on your head is migraines. Migraines can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain in one or both sides of the head, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and more. If you experience any of these symptoms along with tender spots on your head, it's worth talking to your doctor about whether migraines could be the cause.
Another potential cause of tender spots on your head is tension headaches. Tension headaches are often caused by stress or muscle tension, and they can cause a dull, constant pain. If you have tender spots on your head along with a tension headache, it's a good idea to try relaxation techniques or see a massage therapist to help relieve the muscle tension.
If you have any other symptoms along with the tender spots on your head, such as a fever, vomiting, or a rash, it's important to see a doctor right away. These could be indicative of a more serious condition, such as meningitis. However, in most cases, tender spots on the head are nothing to worry about and will go away on their own.
