What can cause a bump on the head?

In many cases, a bump on the head isn’t serious and usually heals over time. However, some bumps on the head can be concerning, especially if they seemingly come out of nowhere. Various factors can lead to a bump on the head, such as head trauma, infections, cysts, or abnormal cell growth, and although head bumps might cause some discomfort, they usually aren’t a cause for alarm.

Along with the bump, a person might experience other symptoms, like pain, swelling, or bruising. If the bump starts to worsen or you experience severe symptoms like loss of consciousness, weakness, or seizures, seek immediate medical attention. Read on to learn more about the possible causes, treatment options, and warning signs that could indicate a more serious condition.

What causes a bump on the head?

A bump on the head can develop due to different reasons. They’re commonly linked to injury or trauma but may be caused by bone spurs, abnormal growths, or other problems. Let’s explore the potential causes.

Injuries

A common cause of a bump on the head is due to a head injury. This can lead to the formation of a scalp hematoma—a localized collection of blood—that causes a visible bump on the head. Depending on the severity of the injury, the bump can resolve on its own or may require medical attention. Examples of events that may cause head injuries include: 

• Accidental falls
• Sports injuries, including contact sports like football or boxing
• Car, motorcycle, and bicycle accidents
• Physical altercations, such as being struck on the head
• Occupational hazards, particularly in construction or industrial jobs
• Recreational activities, like skateboarding or mountain biking
• Slips on icy or wet surfaces

Cysts

Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop under the skin and create a bump on the head. They form due to various reasons, such as blocked hair follicles. Pilar cysts, also known as trichilemmal cysts, are a common type of cyst that typically develop on the scalp and develop due to a buildup of keratin under the skin. They often feel like round and sometimes tender nodules beneath the skin. Cysts are typically harmless, but they can cause discomfort and may need to be removed by a medical professional if they continue to grow.

Infections

Infections caused by bacteria or fungi can lead to inflammation and swelling, sometimes leaving a bump on the head. One common example is scalp folliculitis, which occurs when hair follicles become infected, causing red, pus-filled bumps. Treatment for these infections typically includes antibiotics or antifungal medications.

Benign skin growths

Skin growths such as moles, skin tags, and seborrheic keratosis can appear as bumps on the head. These growths are usually harmless and noncancerous, but they may need to be removed for cosmetic reasons or if they become irritated. Occasionally, a dermatologist may also remove these growths to examine them more closely and ensure they’re not a sign of serious skin conditions that require further treatment.

Warts

Warts are small, rough-textured skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Although warts are more common on other parts of the body, including the hands, feet, and other areas, they can sometimes develop on the head or scalp. Warts are typically benign and can resolve on their own. However, treatment may be necessary if they cause discomfort or spread to other parts of the body.

Insect bites or stings

Insects such as mosquitoes, spiders, or ticks can bite or sting the head and cause an inflammatory reaction that develops as a bump. These small bumps can be itchy or painful but typically resolve on their own with time. In some cases, treatment with over-the-counter creams or antihistamines can help. If the bites or stings cause severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

Bone spurs

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes or exostosis, are abnormal bone growths that can form on the skull. While they are often symptomless, they can sometimes become noticeable as a bump on the head. In some situations, bone spurs can cause discomfort or complications and need to be removed by a medical professional.

Lipoma

A lipoma is a benign, soft, rubbery tumor typically found under the skin, including on the head. These tumors, composed of fatty tissue, are the most common form of soft tissue tumor and are generally slow-growing and painless. Though they are usually harmless and do not require treatment, a lipoma might need removal if it becomes large or causes cosmetic concerns.

Pay attention to symptoms and monitor any bumps for changes in size, shape, or pain level. If you are concerned about a bump on your head, consult a healthcare professional for medical advice and appropriate treatment options.

Should I be worried about a bump on the head?

Experiencing a bump on the head is common and usually not a cause for concern. However, it’s always a good idea to monitor and look out for any worsening symptoms. In some cases, a bump on the head can result in serious injuries, such as a severe head injury or concussion.

Possible complications of a bump on the head, if left unaddressed or untreated, may include various symptoms, such as: 

• Loss of consciousness
• Memory loss
• Double vision
• Worsening headaches
• Difficulty understanding speech
• Seizures
• Loss of coordination and weakness
• Nausea and vomiting

See a healthcare provider for a bump on the head if any of these symptoms are present or persist. In severe cases, such as those involving a concussion or a serious head injury, a trip to the emergency room might be necessary.

Can a lump on your head be cancer?

Discovering a lump on your head can be concerning if you’re unsure of its cause. Although many lumps are benign and noncancerous, some lumps might mean an underlying problem like cancer.

In some cases, a lump on the head might indicate a type of skin cancer, which can appear as a new or changing mole, wart, bleeding scab that doesn’t heal, or a scaly patch on the scalp. If you’re concerned that a lump on your head could be cancerous, always consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and diagnosis.

When examining a lump, your doctor may take several steps to determine whether it’s cancerous:

1. Visual inspection: The doctor will visually assess the lump and the surrounding area.
2. Physical examination: The lump’s size, texture, and pain level may be assessed through touch.
3. Medical history: Your personal and family medical history may be assessed.
4. Imaging: The doctor may request imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to analyze the lump further.
5. Biopsy: A sample of the lump’s tissue may be removed and analyzed for signs of cancer.

How is the cause of a bump on the head diagnosed?

A medical evaluation from a healthcare provider can help determine the cause and severity of a head bump. During the consultation, a healthcare provider may ask several questions to understand potential causes, such as:

• How did the injury occur?
• When did the injury happen?
• Are you experiencing any pain, dizziness, or nausea?
• Have you lost consciousness at any time since the injury?
• Do you have any memory loss related to the incident?

Based on medical history and symptoms, the healthcare provider may order various tests to diagnose the cause of the bump. Some common diagnostic tests include:

• Visual examination: A healthcare provider will physically inspect the bump and surrounding area to see if there are any signs of injury or infection.
• CT scan: A CT scan is often used to determine if there is any internal bleeding or swelling in the brain. With this test, a healthcare provider can examine if there are any fractures, tumors, or blood clots.
• X-ray: X-rays might be ordered if the healthcare provider suspects a skull fracture or other bone-related injury.
• MRI: In some cases, an MRI might be recommended to get a more detailed view of the brain and surrounding tissue.

A proper diagnosis through a series of questions and medical tests can help a healthcare provider recommend the best treatment.

How long does a bump on your head last?

How long a bump on the head lasts depends on the underlying cause. While bumps from minor injuries typically go away within a few days to a week, other causes might have different timelines:

• More serious head injuries: Moderate injuries and larger scalp hematomas might take several weeks to heal completely.
• Cysts: Pilar cysts on the scalp can persist for a longer period if they’re not removed. These can stick around for months or even years and may require surgery to be removed.
• Infections: Infections like folliculitis can last for several days to weeks, depending on the severity and the treatment used.
• Warts: Warts on the scalp or head can persist for weeks to months or even years. They might disappear on their own or may require treatment to remove them.
• Bone spurs: Bone spurs don’t typically go away unless they’re surgically removed.
• Lipomas: Lipomas are slow-growing and can remain for an extended period. They usually do not disappear without surgery.

An individual’s overall health condition, age, and the severity of the head bump can all influence how long a bump on the head will last. If you have any concerns about the healing progress of a head bump, consult a healthcare professional.

How to get rid of a bump on your head

The best treatment for head bumps will depend on the cause, severity, and whether the bump is causing discomfort or cosmetic concerns. In many cases, a bump on the head will resolve on its own within a few days or weeks. To manage pain and swelling from a head injury, you can consider the following steps:

• Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day.
• Use over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as needed.
• Keep the area clean and avoid touching or scratching the bump to prevent infection or further irritation.

If the bump is a result of an infection, treatment might involve using antifungal or antibacterial creams or ointments. For bumps caused by ingrown hairs or excess keratin buildup, gentle exfoliating may help reduce the formation of new bumps. In case of suspected traumatic brain injury (TBI), it’s important to get immediate medical attention.

Most importantly, seek immediate medical attention for persistent or severe symptoms after a head bump

Causes of a bump on the head include head injuries, infections, and cysts. In most cases, a bump on the head will go away on its own without treatment. However, suppose you experience loss of consciousness, memory loss, trouble with balance or walking, vomiting or nausea, or a worsening headache after a head bump. In that case, you should seek emergency medical care immediately, as these could be signs of a serious head injury. Visit your healthcare provider to rule out serious complications and determine the best treatment for your situation.