Questions posted in the
Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
| |
|
Subject: Re: burning in the scalp I have still not been diagnosed, and am wondering what can cause a burning feeling in the scalp. It feels as though someone has drawn a line straight across the top of my head, and has rubbed BenGay on the area behind that line. It runs from the top of my head down to the base of my neck. Could anyone tell me what causes this. It is very uncomfortable, and bothersome. Thank you Cheryl = I wonder if this is due to mechanical compression or irritation of sensory nerve roots coming from the highest cervical levels. These sensory nerves serve the back of the scalp (the face sensation is a completely different nerve supply). I would see a neurologist to be certain there is no other problem. I would not expect one, since those nerve roots do not carry fibers going to any muscles. A mechanical problem there may or may not represent anything serious. Best thing to do is to check you for other neurologic signs of spinal cord or spinal nerve root compression. Assuming you get a clean bill of health (normal neurologic exam), then the next thing would be to investigate treatment options. Ask your doctor about low-dose tricyclic agents such as imipramine or nortriptyline. Medications such as Tegretol and Neurontin may also help. Don't overlook physical therapy as a very viable alternative (or adjunct) to medications. I hope this helps. As you know, this information is provided for medical education. Specific questions regarding diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis must come from your doctor after appropriate evaluation. CCF MD mdf.
| |
