Found these bumps on my son’s scalp. Doctor appt is so far away. What’s should I do? They look really painful

 

1. Assess the Bumps

Try to note the following:

• Number and size: Are they one, a few, or many? How big are they roughly (millimeters or centimeters)?

• Color and appearance: Are they red, purple, white, or yellow? Is there pus or crusting?

• Texture: Are they hard, soft, or fluid-filled?

• Tenderness: Does your child flinch or cry when touched?

• Other symptoms: Fever, fatigue, irritability, swollen lymph nodes, headache, or scalp hair loss nearby.

Keep a simple diary of these observations—photos can also help your doctor see changes over time.

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2. Possible Causes (Informational Only)

Painful scalp bumps in children can have multiple causes, such as:

1. Infected hair follicles (folliculitis or boils)

   • Usually red, swollen, and painful. May have a central white or yellow spot if pus is present.

   • Sometimes caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus.

2. Cysts (sebaceous cysts or epidermoid cysts)

   • Firm, round lumps under the skin. Usually painless unless infected.

3. Scalp abscess

   • Often starts as a tender, red bump that grows rapidly. Can be warm and sometimes drain pus.

4. Bug bites or allergic reactions

   • Usually smaller, itchy, and sometimes multiple bumps in a cluster.

5. Other skin conditions

   • Conditions like molluscum contagiosum, impetigo, or kerion (a fungal infection) may cause scalp lumps.

Because your son’s bumps are painful, infection is a real possibility, which can require urgent attention.

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3. Immediate Care Measures at Home

While waiting for medical evaluation:

• Keep the area clean: Gently wash the scalp with mild shampoo; avoid harsh scrubbing.

• Avoid squeezing or picking: This can worsen infection or cause scarring.

• Warm compress: Apply a warm (not hot) compress for 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times a day. This can help reduce pain and promote drainage if a boil forms naturally.

• Pain relief: For children, acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen can help manage pain. Follow dosing instructions carefully based on your child’s weight and age.

• Monitor for spread: Watch for redness spreading beyond the bump, new bumps forming, or discharge of pus.

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4. Watch for Red Flags

Seek urgent medical care if your child develops:

• Fever, chills, or feeling generally unwell.

• Red streaks spreading from the bump.

• Rapidly enlarging swelling or severe pain.

• Pus that keeps coming out or foul smell.

• Signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling of face/lips, difficulty breathing).

If any of these happen, don’t wait for your scheduled doctor appointment—go to urgent care or the emergency department.

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5. Preparing for Your Doctor Appointment

Bring the following info:

• Photos of the bumps (from different angles and over time).

• Any medications or creams you’ve applied.

• Your notes on how fast the bumps appeared and any associated symptoms.

• Any recent injuries, insect bites, or scalp irritation.

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6. Preventing Spread (If Infectious)

• Encourage your child not to share combs, hats, or pillows until cleared by a doctor.

• Wash bedding and hats regularly in hot water.

• Keep fingernails short to reduce scratching and further irritation.

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7. What the Doctor May Do

• Examine the scalp and possibly swab for bacteria or fungus.

• Prescribe antibiotics or antifungal treatments if an infection is found.

• Drain a larger abscess if necessary (this is a procedure done in clinic).

• Provide guidance on prevention and follow-up.

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⚠️ Bottom Line

Because your son’s bumps are painful, it’s safest not to wait too long:

• Call your doctor’s office and explain the pain—they may move up the appointment or suggest urgent evaluation.

• If any red flags appear (fever, spreading redness, pus, severe pain), go to urgent care or the ER immediately.

• Keep the scalp clean, avoid squeezing, use warm compresses, and manage pain with age-appropriate medications.