Understanding My Cranial Fractures: Should I Consult a Doctor?
Greetings, medical community of Reddit! I'm a 20-year-old female, standing at 5’3” and weighing 135 pounds. I can share details about my medications if needed, but I doubt they play a role in my current concern. For several years, I’ve been prescribed medication for ADHD, depression, anxiety, and migraines. I've never smoked. A peculiar incident from a few years ago still troubles me. This occurred while I was under ADHD, depression, and anxiety treatments. Generally, I trust medical professionals, but this experience left me feeling uneasy. Approximately 2 to 3 years back, I visited a doctor regarding my migraines. After having an MRI, I was shown the results. I couldn’t resist snapping a picture, as it appeared quite unusual—now I even use it to give my friends a scare! That aside, there was something in the results that caught my attention. I remember asking the doctor about it, but he reassured me that everything looked normal. Yet, I find myself doubting that assessment. In the MRI image, the doctor highlighted my sinuses, but I noticed multiple fissures in my skull at the top. If permitted, I might share that picture in the comments below. Presently, the cracks are noticeable at two specific points on the front of my skull, originating from both the left and right sides. It’s worth mentioning that during my childhood, when feeling upset or overwhelmed, I would often strike my head in those exact areas—so much so, that I’ve sustained concussions from it before, including one documented case after hitting my head in those same spots twice. Interestingly, as a toddler, I engaged in similar behavior but lacked fine motor skills, so I would repeatedly bang my head against the hardwood floor. Now, I find it curious that the fissures seem to coincide with areas I frequently struck myself over the years. Although I've tried to cease this behavior, it occasionally resurfaces, usually no more than once a year. However, during my youth, this was a monthly occurrence, if not more often. Do you think I should pursue further medical evaluation? I’m hesitant to undergo another MRI just to receive the same reassurance. I decided to reach out here to gather some insights. Hope that’s okay?
Answers (1)
3/4/2026, 11:40:52 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to have concerns about the long-term effects of past head trauma, especially given your history of concussions and self-directed head impact. It’s good that you’re seeking clarity to address your worries.
Key Points:
- You’ve experienced multiple head impacts resulting in concussions, and you’ve noted fissures in your skull from an MRI.
- Your primary concern seems to focus on whether further medical evaluation is necessary, given your history and current symptoms.
Explanation:
Cranial fissures can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma or stress on the skull. Since you have a history of concussions, it’s natural to be concerned about any lasting effects or structural changes in your skull. The reassurance you received from your doctor is important, but it’s completely normal to seek a second opinion or further understanding, especially when it comes to your health.
Even though the previous assessments might have indicated that everything looked normal, your history and current observations should not be dismissed, particularly since you’ve experienced symptoms tied to your mental health and trauma.
Next Steps:
-
Self-Monitoring:
- Keep track of any symptoms you experience, such as headaches, dizziness, mood changes, or cognitive difficulties. Note any patterns related to your history of hitting your head.
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Consult a Specialist:
- While you're hesitant about another MRI, consulting a neurologist or a specialist in head trauma may provide additional perspectives without immediately resorting to imaging. They can assess your history in-depth and determine if further imaging or evaluations are necessary based on your current condition.
-
Discuss Mental Health:
- Since you've mentioned ADHD, depression, and anxiety, it may be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional. Understanding and addressing any underlying issues may help reduce the urge to self-harm or strike your head.
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Emphasize Safety:
- Focus on strategies to manage overwhelming feelings without physical impacts, such as mindfulness techniques, grounding exercises, or alternative coping strategies that can help redirect those impulses.
It's perfectly acceptable to seek reassurance and clarity, especially in health matters that prompt concern. Taking these steps may help you feel more confident and informed about your situation. Please feel free to share any updates or further questions you may have!
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