Persistent Numbness Following Scalp Injury
At 19 years old, I lead a healthy lifestyle—no smoking, no alcohol, and no medications. Recently, I sustained a scalp injury at the back of my head, requiring 14 stitches. Since the incident, I've experienced numbness in the area just above the injury. When I touch that spot, I can't feel my hand coming in contact with it. Occasionally, I sense a mild itch in that vicinity; however, when I attempt to scratch it, I still can't feel anything, and the itch eventually fades on its own without relief from scratching. Upon having my stitches removed, the doctor mentioned that I should expect the numbness to resolve within about two months. Now, it's been slightly over two months since the injury, and while the wound has healed completely, the numb sensation persists.
Answers (1)
7/31/2025, 8:02:03 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about ongoing numbness after your scalp injury. While some recovery can take time, persistent numbness beyond the expected healing duration can happen and is worth monitoring closely.
After a scalp injury, numbness can occur due to nerve irritation or damage. This might resolve as the nerve heals, but it can also take longer in some cases. The mild itching you’re experiencing could be related to the nerve regeneration process.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Track if the numbness changes in intensity, spreads, or if any new symptoms develop, such as pain or additional sensations. This information can provide useful context for future assessments.
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Gentle Massage: If comfortable, gently massage the area around the numbness to stimulate blood flow and possibly promote nerve recovery. Ensure you're not putting excessive pressure on the site of the injury, as it could still be sensitive.
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Avoid Irritants: Minimize pressure or friction in the area, as this may exacerbate symptoms. Wear loose-fitting hats or avoid tight hairstyles until you feel improvement.
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Patience and Time: Nerve healing can vary significantly among individuals, sometimes taking months. Many people see gradual improvements over several months.
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Pain Management: Use over-the-counter pain relief (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) if you experience discomfort, following the recommended dosages.
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Seek Support: If symptoms persist without improvement over the next few weeks or worsen, keep track of your symptoms and consider following up with a healthcare professional. They can perform specific tests to ensure there’s no ongoing nerve damage.
Remember, you are not alone in this, and nerves can take time to heal. Keeping a positive outlook and a record of changes can be very helpful. If you have any further questions or need clarification on these points, feel free to ask!
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