Chronic, odd scalp/head pain

I've always experienced a strange tingling pain near my ear when using a wireless phone, but it would go away promptly. Last winter, after using a new cordless phone, the pain stayed. For months, I have had a mild daily ache - like a clump of hair being yanked on constantly - and itching in the area behind one or sometimes both ears. The scalp looks perfect. CBC with ESR was normal. History: A few years before the pain began, an ANA test was 1:160 speckled, but lupus was ruled out. Also, a persistently enlarged, but otherwise healthy, lymph node was removed from the back of my head.

I've stopped using wireless and cordless phones. What could cause a mild but constant unusual pain in the head/scalp area? I've had tension headaches a few times before, and this is very different. Are there nerves in the region that could be inflamed? OTC pain relievers don't help. What types of medical tests would help, and what type of doctor should I see? I am a female in her 40s.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Difficult to say without evaluation.

Imaging the area can be considered with a CT scan.  If there continues to be discomfort, an MRI can be considered, as well as a neurology referral.  Yes, inflammation of the nerves can lead to some of the symptoms you describe.

An elevated ANA can occur in the normal population.  It seems like a rheumatologist has ruled out lupus and other rheumatological conditions.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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