Hi doctor,
Seven months ago, I had a serious head injury. That time, I was left with a small hole in the skull after extradural hematoma evacuation. Then, I had no discomfort in the head. Now, I have terrible tension around the back of the head and dull pressure and pain next to the hole. I feel hyperemotional, frightened, extreme anxiety and jaw clenching. I had none of these for seven months post surgery. Is it safe to live with this hole? What is underneath it? Will it affect my life? Why am I getting sudden extreme head tension and dull aches? From yesterday, I am taking beta blockers for stress and tension. My neurologist said that I am free from brain damage. But, I need more advice.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
A small piece of the skull bone could be cut and the hole in the bone was made. According to the reports (attachment removed to protect patient identity), there is no residual brain damage. Under these circumstances, I can explain your headache as follows.
The pain around the burr hole may be due to fibrosis and scar formation, which makes the scalp tough. Skin traction around the burr hole may be due to this scar formation. Treatment is usually symptomatic with pain medications.
The headache may also be related to post-traumatic stress disorder. You should see a psychiatrist for diagnosis and therapy. Treatment may include antidepressants and behavioral therapy.
Given that there is no evidence of residual head injury, your headache may be unrelated to the prior injury. It may simply be tension headache, which is very common. Treatment is with pain medications and avoiding the stressors.
For further information consult a neurologist online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/neurologist
Thank you doctor,
Is it safe to live with this open hole? Is it common to leave the hole open instead of putting a plate? Will it result in delayed onset of brain damage or headaches? Is it fine to massage the skin over the hole?
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Yes, it is safe to live a normal life with the hole in the skull. Many patients, who undergo surgery for traumatic brain injury or for other conditions such as tumor, have these holes.
For further information consult a neurologist online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/neurologist
Was this answer helpful?
|This is a sponsored Ad. icliniq or icliniq doctors do not endorse the content in the Ad.
Comprehensive Medical Second Opinion.Submit your Case
What is the reason for having negative thoughts and vivid dreams?
Query: Hi doctor, My father is 56 years old. He is having negative thoughts and talks about deaths, has a vivid dream with severe sleepiness. He is not enjoying anything which he enjoyed before. He has short-term memory loss. He has fatigue with increased appetite. He has little issue in breathing during ... Read Full »
What is the treatment for PTSD, depression and anxiety?
Query: Hello doctor,What is your recommendation for someone with PTSD, depression, and anxiety? Read Full »
What can be done to control PTSD and bipolar disorder?
Query: Hello doctor, I have PTSD and bipolar disorder type 11 and it is getting harder for me to function daily. I have already seen my health care provider. For this, she gave me a prescription and I still have the manic episodes. Read Full »