Migraines, scalp above left ear has become very sensitive to hair brushing...?

By Ask the Clinician, Health Guide Monday, February 25, 2013

- A
- A
- A

Full Question:

I have migraines but recently they have improved. My concern is that about two months ago my scalp above my left ear has become very sensitive to hair brushing...wind blowing on it but I can lay on that side. It didn't seem to have anything to do with the headaches....it just began hurting! I have a problem turning my neck on that side and wondered if that could be aggravating all those nerves on that same side. If you could help me understand what nerves could be causing the pain.....or.....just what could be causing it it would be so appreciated. I am a worried and need to have my mind put to rest. Thank you so much. Florence.

Full Answer:

Dear Florence;

What you describe is allodynia (when non-painful stimuli cause discomfort or pain). In one migraine study, 79% of Migraineurs had this. Also it can occur by itself before, during or in between Migraines. That would be my best guess, and it can be associated with neck symptoms usually from problems with the cervical spine.

Good luck,
John Claude Krusz and Teri Robert

If you need help finding a Migraine and headache specialist,
visit our listing of Patient Recommended Specialists.

About Ask the Clinician:

Dr. Krusz is a recognized expert in the fields of headache and Migraine treatment and pain treatment. Each week, he and Lead Expert Teri Robert, team up to answer your questions about headaches and Migraines. You can read more about Dr. Krusz or more about Teri Robert.

If you have a question, please click HERE. Accepted questions will be answered by publishing the answers here. Due to the number of questions submitted, no questions will be answered privately, and questions will be accepted only when submitted via THIS FORM. Please do not submit questions via email, private message, or SharePost comments. Thank you.

Please note: We cannot handle emergencies or diagnose via the Internet. Please do not ask us to diagnose; see your physician for diagnosis.

We hope you find this general medical and health information useful, but this Q & A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. For all personal medical and health matters, including decisions about diagnoses, medications and other treatment options, you should always consult your doctor. See full Disclaimer.

Follow Teri on or

Migraines and Acts of Kindness - Migratude Monday

View comments (1) | Add comment