Big, rock hard lump on top of scalp.

Hi,

I've got this big lump on the top of my head. It's completely under the skin, attached to the scalp and I can move the skin over it and feel the sides. Feels like bone, but it's new. Noticed it a couple weeks ago. Can clearly feel the edges of it and everything.

Can't see GP for 2 weeks, and I know he won't do anything about it, he'll roll his eyes and tell me I worry over nothing, because I've been to him twice over newly formed lumps (in other places - throat and in mouth) that he thinks are nothing. Considering they're still there and growing, I really don't think they're nothing.

Went to the UTC, they told me that the lump on top of my head is folliculitis. It looks nothing like it, and the lump isn't small like it would be for folliculitis. It's about 3cmx2cm.

I don't know what to do. I feel kinda given up on, and stupid for if I'm worrying over nothing. The thought of it being something bad and my parents having to bury me bothers me every day. What should I do?

  • Hello and thanks for your post

    I'm sorry you are worried about a lump at the top of your head and you feel that your doctor is not taking your symptoms seriously.

    We are sometimes contacted by people who feel that their doctor does not take their symptoms seriously and they ask us what they can do. But I’m afraid that we are rather limited in what we can say and do, because as you probably know it is not possible to have tests or investigations, or to see a specialist without a GP's referral. All we can really do is tell people to go back and discuss things with their GP again and tell them you are very worried about your symptoms, or ask to see another doctor in the practice. You could also speak to the practice manager at your GP practice to express your concerns.

    Sometimes when people feel that things are not going well with their GP, it is down to communication problems perhaps on both sides. So you may find it helpful to read some information  that has been produced by the Patients Association which has some useful tips about getting the most out of a GP appointment and you can read it here. 

    One tip that they have which is sometimes useful is to ask the GP  how long  you should I wait for symptoms to get better or for a treatment to work before going back to the doctor.  It is useful to do this as it does put the onus on your doctor to see you again if things do not improve.

    I hope you know more about your situation soon. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene