The soft spot on the top of my baby’s head is one of my favorite places to run my hand. I don’t know why exactly but it seems one of those places on him that truly represents his baby-hood. One way I know that his infancy isn’t quite gone and my baby days aren’t over yet. O recently turned a year (so, yes, technically he’s no infant) and I have felt his baby-ness slipping through my fingers. I keep saying that to my patients when they ask about him. I am hoping it will somehow prolong this period and I won’t have to wake up and find myself with two grown boys in the house.
The emotional yo-yo between pure excitement about them growing up, with the simultaneous dread of losing these baby moments, remains real and palpable. The essence of parenthood I suppose is that stew of anxiety-thrill-dread-adoration-excitement as the days unfold and you hope for new things for your little baby while lamenting the loss of precious moments of who your baby is on a Monday in January. So the soft spot is a good place to go to calm my inner anxiety about my toddlers walking out the door to college.
Lots of new parents ask me about caring for the soft spot. As the first year unfolds, it is the soft spot (aka “fontanelle”) in the front/top portion of a baby’s head that parents ask about, the anterior fontanelle. I think we all conjure up crazy worries about an errant flying pencil landing in it. Or pushing too hard and squishing something important. I’ve never experienced, read, or heard of this happening.
First, a little science to calm you about that soft spot:
- Infants are born with about 6 soft spots in their heads to allow for the big squeeze through the birth canal. Ouch. Understatement of the century.
- In general, pediatricians and parents can only feel 2 soft spots at birth. Even then, we can usually only feel one spot after a baby is about a month of age.
- 90 % of soft spots (the anterior fontanelle) close between about 7 and 19 months of age.
- The soft spot is often a diamond shape. But it doesn’t always feel like that. It can be anywhere from a couple inches across to just finger tip in size.
I think we’re all curious (pediatricians, parents, relatives, neighbors, the lady at the grocery who touches your baby before you have time to stop her) about the soft spot as it reflects a tender spot on your baby. A reflection of all that growth and potential housed in one little head. You’re not alone if you find yourself thinking/worrying about the soft spot at 2am. When O was born, I asked his pediatrician at two separate visits to reassure me about his soft spot. It just felt big! I think she thought I was crazy. I remember feeling embarrassed to bring it up (thinking she would think I should know better) even though I was worried about it. She reassured me. He was growing well, his head was growing well, and he was doing what he was supposed to do. Dr Kelly Evans , a friend and pediatrician who is specializing in craniofacial pediatrics (head and face) said she, too, asked about her son’s soft spot after he was born, and worried like so many other moms.
Your pediatrician will always look at the baby’s head growth and the size of the soft spot at check ups. Only rarely do pediatricians send patients to see craniofacial experts. When Dr Evans sees patients in the craniofacial clinic for evaluation of the soft spot, the craniofacial team doesn’t just look at the soft spot, they feel and evaluate the spot in the context of the baby. “Our opinion of the soft spot all comes in context of their head shape, their developmental skills and OFC (measurement around the head). I am never just looking at the fontanelle alone, but how the baby’s head is growing and how it looks and feels. And how they act when we examine them,” she adds. Although we talk a lot about this spot, it doesn’t often represent a health problem. More often, it’s a true reflection of health.
More Science to Calm You About That Soft Spot:
- The fontanelle or “soft spot” at the front of a baby’s head is the intersection of 4 bones (2 frontal and 2 parietal) in the skull (see video below).
- The anterior fontanelle is not fragile, but also not the spot you truly want to expose to the elements. It’s soft and vulnerable as there is no bone between your baby’s brain and the outside world. Good planning in the anatomy world afforded multiple layers of tough tissue protecting your baby at that spot.
- The soft spot serves a dual purpose for your baby – it allows for your baby’s fast growing brain to expand and also provides an elastic-like cushion to the skull until it ultimately closes.
- When a baby transitions from infant to toddler and starts walking (falling!), that fibrous area allows for the bones to shift and absorb impact upon a fall.
- You’ll sometimes see the soft spot pulse a bit as you watch blood flow around your baby’s brain and skull when they are calm and resting.
When it comes to the soft spot, the reality is just to be gentle and smart and trust your instincts. And watch out for those flying pencils.
Take a peek at the video below, a 3-D reconstruction of a CT scan of a patient’s skull showing that diamond shaped fontanelle over the forehead area.
Kathy says
I enjoyed this post. So true in so many ways. Soft spots are amazing, and your second paragraph should be etched in stone about the joys and fears of parenthood. My own babies are growing up faster than I can believe…5 yrs and 19 months…I’m not sure where the days went, but I think I want some of them back!
Bobbi Ysmael says
I’m an adult but my fontanelle’s never grew in all the way. I still have a large soft spot towards the center rear of my head.
michelle luczynski says
my son adam just turned 17 months old and the softspot on the front of his head just doesnt seem to be getting much smaller at all. The doctor said it could be genetic or it could be serious and im scared to death its the latter. his head is a little big but every doctor he has been to has either said even with the fontanel issue that he seems to be very healthy. I would very much like advice on this situation or to hear from other parents that have been through it. I myself was born with a big head and my husbands fontanel didnt close up until he was close to three years old
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Michelle, I’m so sorry you are so scared. Keep talking with your doctor about his/her thoughts and what they see and feel on exam, on your son’s growth chart and in his development. Keep trusting the good news you hear as well (that he is doing well and healthy)! Like all things in pediatrics, the range of normal is vast and large but there are outliers, too. Your doctor may want to do blood work (sometimes we look for thyroid labs in this type of case) or send your son to a specialist like I mention in the blog post. The most important thing I can tell you is to continue to ask questions until you can find answers from his doctor that helps you feel you have what you need. Trust your instincts and continue to advocate for your son while asking your son’s doctor for guidance. I hope this helps you…
donald says
My son is 25mo and his soft spot hasn’t closed is that normal I,m worried
Kim says
I have a question about the anterior soft spot. Is the area in front (towards the forehead) of the fontanelle generally tough and kind of “lumped up”? My daughter is 15.5 months and there is a tough, kind of small lump area, right in front of the soft spot. Is this normal for closure or should I be alarmed?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Kim, Have your pediatrician feel it at the next check-up (likely 18 months). So hard to know over the computer. Sometimes children have what is called a metopic ridge where the bones form a ridge at the midline of the forehead. But I’d suggest you either head in for a quick check now to reassure you and stop the worry or talk with your doctor at the next visit.
Jo says
I have a question about how tough the soft spot is. I know it’s not as fragile as a lot of people think but it has always made me nervous. Today my 3 1/2 month old was in my arms and as I was getting a cup out of the cupboard he leaned his head forward and bumped the corner of the door right on his soft spot. He cried for 5 seconds max but it did turn a little pink. Otherwise he has acted completely normal, smiling and cooing. His soft spot looks completely normal, no bruise (just that little pink mark), not bulging etc. We did talk to a nurse who told us what to watch for as far as head injury but it still really scares me. I just don’t know how tough that membrane is, or how hard of a bump could hurt his brain.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Jo, I don’t know exactly how firm that layer is, either. The only person that really does is a neurosurgeon who cuts through it during surgeries. However, it is a firm piece of fascia type tissue. Think about one thick piece of plastic, like a piece of tarp that you’d put under a tent. Then image it draped nicely over the skull and maintaining shape & tightness. It does a great job protecting the brain, as does the fluid around the brain (that you feel under the soft spot). Keep in touch with the nurse and your pediatrician if anything new comes up, otherwise, trust your instincts that your 3 1/2 month old is doing well…
courtney says
so i definately need an answer to this question. Its not quite 2am but Iam researching about my baby aliyahs soft spot. Is her soft spot supposed to be flat?? Almost like it may be sunk in just a teeny tiny bit. Im not sure what to do or think. im freakin out. Plz help
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
The soft spot can really fluctuate in how it feels depending on the position on your baby (lying down versus sitting up) and how hydrated they are and what stage in development/size of the soft spot. Sometimes it’s totally flush with the skull, sometimes slightly depressed and sometimes slightly full. All of those can be completely normal. Like I said in the post, the soft spot can even pulse when you look at it (underlying blood flow). Sometimes a slightly depressed soft spot can be a sign of dehydration, so if you’re worried about your baby’s soft spot during a time of illness, that is certainly a time to talk with his/her pediatrician.
Gill says
My baby just turned one. I believe her frontal soft spot is closed; I can’t feel it anymore. The pediatrician has told us to come back in 2 months for a head check… Her head is in the 65 percentile but she has a buldge of her frontal bone..it is a symmetrical buldge, right infront of the coronal suture/immediatly infront of the location of her soft spot, before it closed. Her forehead does not protrude. He said it could be hydrocephaly?! But she has no other symptoms and her head is otherwise round with no raised sutures. I thought it might be a suture closure issue…not sure if I really want to wait another 2 months before we get this checked again. Any ideas?
Melody Wilkinson says
Hello, I am writing from New Zealand. Our healthcare system is a bit laid back here and a friend of mine called because her 6year old was poking at the anterior fontanelle asking “what are theses holes in Annie’s head”. My friend was driving at the time and could not see how hard she was poking it but it made the baby cry. Should we be worried. If she takes the baby in they are likely to role there eyes and do nothing. Could you tell us what to look for or ask for if she does take the baby in. Thank you so much!!!
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
You know, from (this!) far away it’s certainly hard for me to know. If the baby cried only briefly and is back to herself, without any strange behavior, fussiness, or movement, I suspect it is fine to watch. However, without knowing the age and health history of the baby, I would recommend you call the pediatrician’s office if you’re alarmed. If you read the post you know the basic science, as well and hopefully that will help put worry into perspective for you all.
Maria says
Hi! First of all, I have to say I was so happy to find your website. It is always comforting to see that other parents are worrying about the same things.
This morning I was feeding my 3 week old daughter and my 22 month old son walked in a hit her on her head. It was too quick to even tell how hard or where exactly, but his fisted hand did seem to land on her soft spot. I of course panicked, but did not want to scare him so kept it to myself. I immediately called my pediatricians service to see what warning signs I had to look for throughout the day.
I guess I am just looking for some reassurance, but how likely is it that he hurt his sister?
She did not cry, she was feeding so at her happiest, but as a paranoid parent I am still worried.
Thanks…
Sammy says
My 3 months old baby soft spot is hard already. Am wondering if something is wrong when a baby at that age soft spot get hard so early.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Sammy, if you have concerns, I recommend you call your child’s pediatrician and schedule a short visit to discuss.
Dustin says
Hi Dr. Swanson, I sure hope you still read and comment on
this being that you’ve made this post over a year ago. Anyhow, I
stumbled on this site while searching Google for some answers. My
15 week old daughter has this groove running down the left side of
her head. It starts from the frontal fontanelle and runs down
laterally toward her cheek; I’d say its about 2-3cm in length. It
appears dark in color (vein colored) and to the touch it feels
“sunk in”, almost as if her frontal and parietal bones are
separated more than they should be. What befuddles me even more is
that she doesn’t have the same type of dark colored groove on the
other side of her head. Is this normal or should I be worried? My
wife told me that her pediatrician hasn’t said anything at her 3
month follow-up but I just noticed this today and it has me
concerned. Thank you so very much in advanced!
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Dustin,
Likely you are seeing a vein on the side of your daughter’s head (your thoughts, exactly, it seems). Often some of the superficial veins of the head and scalp cause and rest in grooves in the side of the head. If you notice more asymmetry in head shape or any other concerns, talk with your pediatrician. In regards to the probable vein, have your pediatrician look at it at the 4 month check up–or sooner if you feel you notice color change, head shape change or any other concerns.
Kay says
Dr. Swanson,
I can feel a groove on the right side of my head…I’d say midway between the top of my head and the side of my head. It’s about the size of the pad of my finger. Could this be a fontanelle still or just a spot where my skull grew weird?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Sorry, I have no idea, Kay. You should talk with your Doctor.
mary says
My 15mth old daughter’s soft spot hardened somewhere around 12mths, or earlier, as this is when I noticed she no longer had one! Now she has a raised hard rige where the soft spot used to be, is this normal? I would really appreciate your help as my health visitor had no idea, and googles not much help either.
Holly Lewis says
My 6 month old baby girl appears to have a dark patch of hair right where her diamond shaped fontanelle over the forehead area is located. She just had her six month appointment and the doctor checked the soft spot but I forgot to ask him about the dark area. It looks like it is her hair color and not the skin but it worries me. She also has a large head in the 99 percentile and my sister started to say that she might have learning problems. However I adressed that with my doctor and he said nothing to worry about because both her father and I have larger heads. Do you think I should take her back to the doctor to have it examined.
Amanda says
My 3 week old niece has no soft spots and her skull is already formed, the mid-wife has never seen this before and me and my siter are feeling a little conserned
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Amanda, sorry for the delay in my response. Talk with your sister about seeing a pediatrician or family practice doc. They will either show you the soft spot or do more testing to ensure it’s normal. Congratulations on the birth of your niece!
Kero says
g’day. i just had my second son 17 days ago. i have some concerns about his soft spot. his brother, who’ll turn a year tomorrow has always had his soft spot pulsing, and now little bub’s isn’t pulsing at all, should i be worried? (I’m worried already though). the other thing, the baby just cries a lot, colic maybe?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Kero, I wouldn’t be very worried. Talk with your newborn’s pediatrician at the next visit. However, soft spots really do vary in size and shape. And some children often have pulsing fontanelles while others don’t. It’s a function both of their anatomy but also their positioning (are they sitting upright or lying down?) and their hydration status…
Andrea says
Hi there, how often are there problems with the babys soft spot and what would it look/feel like if It was bulging..I’m scared I won’t know if its bulging because I don’t like to touch it thankyou
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
It’s extremely RARE to have any problems with the soft spot. There is nothing to be afraid of—-touch away!
Andrea says
What would the fontanelle look like when its bulging and what would it feel like?
Andrea says
What would a bulging fontanelle look and feel like?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
It would appear like a bulge above the part of the skull around it. It would look like a little mound.
Naomi says
Hi I took my 3 and a half month boy swimming and my niece bless her was playing with him and not taking any notice what was going on around her, when all of a sudden a big bucket of water came bang down on his soft spot from a fair hight, could this of harmed him in any way? He only cried about 20 seconds but im so worried. Many thanks
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Naomi,
I recommend if you have any concerns about your 3 1/2 mo old son’s behavior after any injury you talk with the nurse or clinic that cares for him. This is an example where internet medicine doesn’t really work. Hope that helps!
Cheryl says
Hello my son is now 6 months old and no loger has a soft spot! Should i be worried, the doctor said that he is going to keep an eye on it but he didnt quite say waht i should look for any warning signs or anything.
Cheryl says
So my son is 6 months old and his peditrition said that he no longer has a soft spot, he also said he wants to keep an eye on it. But then never told me what to watch for is there anything special i need to keep an eye on. Also is there any reason i should worry??
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Cheryl,
Nothing you need to look at, but if you remained worried, schedule a visit with your son’s pediatrician at 7 months of age. They can measure the head circumference (distance around his head) and prove that his brain is growing well!
Sue says
Hi Wendy
Does a babies soft spot change as it gets older?my 7 week olds sopt went from flush to a bit depressed .I took her to the dr and they said she was not dehydrated.so why else would the appearance change?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Sue, the spot can change with hydration status, time, and growth. So yes, the soft spot can feel differently one day and one month to the next. try feeling it when your child is sitting up and then feel it when they are lying down. It will likely feel less “flushed” when the baby is lying down because of shifting positions and fluid, etc.
Sue says
Thanks so much for clearing that up!
Angie says
Hi I don’t know if I will get a response since this was written so long ago. But I have an 18 month old niece that has a rather large soft spot. The pediatrician has measured it and it is 5in long x 3in wide and has not closed one bit. they are now sending my sister to have test done. They have already done an x-ray and now will do a ct scan. But the pediatrician will not tell her what exactly it is they are looking for. Could you tell me some of the things that could cause her soft spot to be so large and still open?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Hi Angie,
I’m so sorry to hear about your worries. I’m unsure exactly what the doctor is looking for in a skull xray and CT although I would suggest asking the doctor if there are alternative ways to evaluate the structures without radiation. Can they evaluate with a cranial ultrasound (for example)? Maybe not, but it is worth discussing.
If the pediatrician doesn’t state what they are looking for, I’d ask for a second opinion. Transparency is KEY and I can’t imagine they are hiding something so maybe just asking again or being clear with the doctor that understanding the WHY you are getting extensive testing will really help you understand how to consent to testing for the baby and relax your worry as well.
sam says
Hi, today when i was burping my daughter today i noticed that her soft spot was just the slightest bit depressed but when i layed her flat it seemed to go back out. Is this normal? She has had the diarrhea lately, and i’ve been waiting to see her doctor. I know that this can be a sign of dehydration but she seems fine otherwise so is this just because of the postion that she is in or could this be dehydration?
Gemma says
Hi,
Hope you can help. My son is nearly 22 months old and still has a soft spot,coin size. He is still seeing a consultant at the hospital as he was born 4 weeks early and was floppy at birth, he is fine now, a normal toddler, just the soft spot.
When we seen the consultant in summer he sent us for blood tests which came back fine and when we seen him last month he said he wanted to see him in 6 months time and if it wasnt closed by then he wants to do further testing.
Im really panicing now, what tests would be done and what be wrong?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
I’m not certain there is anything wrong, Gemma, but I would call the consultant that saw your son and talk with them. As the blog post discusses, variability in the soft spot is normal, and closure of the soft spot can happy anywhere from infancy to about 2 years of age.
Read this, too:
https://www.wendysueswanson.com/see-spot-run-anterior-fontanelle-part-2/
Jo says
Is it possible for my 5 yr old to still have a soft spot? Her head kind of dips down right there, but not possitive if it’s soft or not. Does it depend if they have other medical history as to when it will close?
Charity B says
this is for Jo..
i’ve just read your post and it sounds similar to my Son. he’ll be turning 3 n June. and he has always had a dip where is soft spot is, but now that he is almost 3 i thought it would be going away, but has seemed to move towards the top of his head, it curves slightly in. It worries me so much! i can’t get my mind off of it.. please if anyone has any thought, please share…
I’ve had him checked out when he was younger, probley about 7 or 8 months.. he’s pediatrician, checked it and said that it was normal.. but it’s still there..
I’m wondering if i should wait for his 3yr check up to ask questions, but like i said i can’t get my mind off of it.
But he’s so smart.. he’s vocabulary is crazy, his mind is like a sponge.. knows his colors, shapes, and counts to 10, for the most part he is more advanced than other kids i see his age.
Shouls i be worried? is this curv n his head normal? help..
amber says
hello … my son 18 months old and his soft spot has not closed yet? his doctor said we should be concerned at 2yrs old if it hasn’t closed and quote “have to do work on him” which i’m thinking is a plate put in … i guess my question is has anyone else seen this or heard of this i’m really scared…. further more the other day my 3yr old nephew bless his heart but hes a little outta control took my son’s head and whacked it off the table he had a goose egg on his head stopping at the soft spot it is the 3rd day and the bump is still there?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
No. I really don’t think your doc was thinking of a plate. I think he was thinking more about doing a “work-up” which would only consist of some blood work and possibly a referral to a specialist and/or a CT scan of the head to evaluate the bones of the skull.
It’s very unusual for a soft spot not to close after 24 months. And no, I’ve never seen a healthy child need a plate!
If you’re worried about your son’s behavior or appearance of the bump on his head today, call your son’s doc for a quick check!
simone says
I am so greatful that I found this post, however I dont know if you are still responding on here.. However my daughter is going to be 3 months in just a few days and for the past month and a half, I have repeatedly asked drs here in London about her soft spot. When she is sitting up it is always sunken in and quite significantly. All the Drs tell me that she is fine, but to be honest I have never in my life seen a soft spot like this. I dont know if I am just really a worried mom or if my worries are justifiable. I dont have alot of faith in the medical care here in the UK, so I am trying to learn as much as I can.
Her soft spot seems to go flush when she is laying down, but the sec she sits up it sinks right back in again, and she has a slight ridge behind it that goes across her head from temple to temple. She does not have any illness, she is hydrated and acts just fine. But I am just so worried that they are missing a issue and it will be to late to do anything about it later. The last DR told me that she has seen lots and lots of soft spots like this and its perfectly normal. Can you give me your take on this,
Thank you so much
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Simone,
I would take comfort that the pediatricians feel comfortably with the physical exam. We see so many babies and the range of variation every day, that I suspect you’re just seeing normal changes in fluid movement when you notice a change with the fontanelle.
How was the most recent visit? Did the Dr feel everything looked the same?
Athar Rashid says
My daughter is 8 days old and the paedriatician said that he is concerned that her soft spot (anterior fontanele) is very small. Its about the size of a finger tip or maybe slightly smaller. He said that her head circumference needs to be monitored to map the growth and if this stops, then she may have to go in for a surgery. I am really worried and was wondering – is it possible that there’s nothing wrong with her and the head will just grow normally? or does it mean that she is definately in trouble. He weight at birth was 7 pounds and appears to be perfectly healthy. She is quite strong and her feeding too is normal. Please can you give me an opinion.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
My recommendation is to follow the HC monthly to ensure you are seeing good growth—that’s the most reassuring thing. IF you have any concerns, return to the doctor to discuss them! Hope all is well.
Yasmina says
Hello, My 6 month old has a groove on one side of his head looks to be the fontanel line it’s much deeper wider and darker then the other side of the head. that side also seems to be just a tiny bit larger (really not very noticeable) he’s very strong tall chubby and healthy, his eyes line up and everything seems almost perfectly symmetrical. His soft spots are open and everything seems normal, and he’s a very easy baby. problem is I’ve been trying to find a pediatrician to tell me about this line and there are NONE available in my region, so he has no doctor doing follow ups on his growth. I’m going to continue looking for one. But are there warning signs I should be looking for?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Yasmina,
I can’t tell you exactly what the line is from your description but what I suspect you are seeing is a vein running underneath the skin in a grove of the bones in the skull. This is very common to see. Will you have a visit with a pediatrician in the coming months so they can reassure you it appears normal?
norma says
my great great daugther her soft is still very much open and head size has not changed in 2 months the doc wants to put helment on her for what reason she is 4 months old
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Norma,
Helmets are generally used for head shape abnormalities, not growth changes in head shape. See this link
https://www.seattlechildrens.org/medical-conditions/chromosomal-genetic-conditions/positional-plagiocephaly-treatment/
Charity says
similar to Joe’s Comment
i’ve just read your post and it sounds similar to my Son. he’ll be turning 3 n June. and he has always had a dip where is soft spot is, but now that he is almost 3 i thought it would be going away, but has seemed to move towards the top of his head, it curves slightly in. It worries me so much! i can’t get my mind off of it.. please if anyone has any thought, please share…
I’ve had him checked out when he was younger, probley about 7 or 8 months.. he’s pediatrician, checked it and said that it was normal.. but it’s still there..
I’m wondering if i should wait for his 3yr check up to ask questions, but like i said i can’t get my mind off of it.
But he’s so smart.. he’s vocabulary is crazy, his mind is like a sponge.. knows his colors, shapes, and counts to 10, for the most part he is more advanced than other kids i see his age.
Should i be worried? is this curve n his head normal? help..
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Charity,
It sounds like you have a thriving, healthy child and likely the dip you feel is just a normal variation on head shape. The skull really isn’t growing quickly at this age, so I would focus on your child’s beautiful development. But like anything in parenting, if you really remain worried, it’s likely worth a visit to the pediatrician for reassurance and a quick physical exam!
Danielle Goode- Switzer says
I too have a similar story to Joe & Charity
I have a son that just turned 9 & we too were told by his pediatrician when he was small that the slight indention was normal & that over time should close. While bathing tonight he informed me that it is very sensitive to the touch, is this normal?!!!! Please help very scared
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD says
Danielle,
Many soft spots are still OPEN but difficult to FEEL after 9 months. The most important information you get is that your child’s head circumference (distance around their head) is increasing each month. If you have any concerns, schedule a visit with the nurse to go in and check the head circumference (HC) of your baby and plot it on the growth grid. Most likely, the HC will be increasing and you can rest easy.
Elizabeth Wilson says
I have a 3 month old and noticed to day that his soft spot had changed color. It is darker in color almost like a light bruise color. Is it normal for it to change colors?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Elizabeth, the color change may just be blood flow in the veins in your baby’s scalp that you’re appreciating–so difficult to know via blogging. Talk with your 3 month-old’s doc next time you’re in…
Lesley Blundell says
My 18 year old daughter has always had a dent at the back of her head and we thought it was just a dent but when she cut her hair very short we realised how big the dent was, so she went to the doctors and an xray showed that her soft spot hadn’t closed. She is going to see a consultant next week but what will they do and why did it not close up. hope you can help
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Lesley,
What the xray may have showed by an open posterior soft spot but hard to know without it in front of me. Great for you that your appointment is so soon. Usually if there is any concern about delayed closure of the soft spot we do lab screening of the thyroid (low thyroid can delay closure of the bones). Make sure you ask about that, too.
Tammy Pittenger says
My baby is 7 months old and the frontal lobe is closing nicely, but the soft spot behind the larger frontal lobe isn’t closing and is filled with fluid since birth (size of a quarter). When she sits up the fluid goes down, but when she lays down or cries, it’s more pronounced. She is 110% hc, weight 95% and length 100%. She was 10.7 pounds at birth. She is extremely happy, easy and is crawling- very alert and is now saying Mama. She is one of four children and is more advanced than they were at this age. Our regular doctor isn’t concerned, but today he was busy and had to see his partner. He said she looks and acts normal, but wanted her to see a specialist as that soft spot should of closed by now and shouldn’t have fluid in it— she rarely spits up, never fussy and her eyes track very well- I think she’s advanced for this age, but am scared to death over this fluid in her soft spot. Her PKU at birth was normal, she was a vaginal delivery- she dropped in my canal a few hours before birth (other 3 girls dropped a month before) and she came out with one great big push— she was my largest baby, but easiest delivery. Why would she have fluid? What will an ultrasound reveille? Should I be worried? Her sutras are a little wide, not too wide and the front lobe is closing nicely. Have you ever seen fluid in a soft spot before? If, so does it take longer to close? What can cause this? It has stayed the same size since birth– could it be a tumor? Hydrocypholis? Does she need a shunt? Please let me know as any information would be super helpful! Thank you so much! Worried Sick Mama of four!
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Hi Tammy,
The soft spot closes somewhere between 9months and 24 months, however usually the posterior one (in the back part of the top of the head) closes first. But the range of timing is large. I suspect that the US was ordered more because your daughter’s head circumference was greater than 100%. I’m hoping you have heard results and have information and good, open communication with your doctor. A craniofacial expert (at academic children’s hospitals) would be another person to consult with if you have more questions.
edna says
my daughter is 5months old after her visit with her pediatrician she has to have some x-rays because her pediatrician couldn’t seem to find her soft spot… the x-rays didn’t show anything abnormal and looked fine, but her pediatrician still wants her to see a neurologist to find out why her soft spot is closed…. should i be worried that something may be wrong?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Edna,
Don’t get too worried. the pediatrician and the neurologist will follow the growth of your baby’s head—that is the most important measurement.
Often the soft spot is still open when it’s difficult to feel.
I’m hoping you get all your questions answered by these visits.
sarah says
hi my son is 3 years old and his soft spot is still open on top he is very anaemic and takes iron supplements 3x a day and has recently discovered he has abnormal optic discs.he has had an ultra sound done and it appeared normal but now has been referred to kings college to see a neurosurgeon could they be thinking these are all connected as im not getting answers from no one ,my 10 year old daughter has development delay and colobonmas in her eyes
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Hi Sarah,
It sounds like you have concerns about both of your children. One person you may want to ask to see would be a pediatric geneticist after you do the first referral for your son. That might help you sort through your questions and get you some answers.
Have you been referred to a genetics doctor or a neurologist?
Lorna Scahill says
I have being so worried about my sons front soft spot lately. He is 9 months old, he had a virus last week he had very bad temperature and diarreah and completely lost his appetite, I brought him to a&e as his soft spot was very sunken so I was afraid he was dehydrated they let him home the following day and told me to give him lots of fluids , little & often. 1 week later he is drinking loads of fluids and has lots of wet nappies but his soft spot is still very sunken, his doctor keeps telling me not to worry as long as he has lots of wet nappies. I can’t help but worry, I want to know why it’s still sunk down so much could there be something wrong with my baby I just want some reassurance, I’m driving myself crazy also he’s in great form.
Younas says
Hello, Your article is informative no doubt. but not for me, actually i’m looking for something else. My daughter is 5 years old and 35% of her head is very soft, discovered it few hours back, her skull is complete as it felt, but the soften part is like water on her head beneath the skull. if we touch that part it doesn’t hurt or cause pain,and when you press that place bit down you can feel the skull inside behind that soften part. Doctor would you suggest something about this.? Do you know what this is? Please share your experience becuase i’ve never seen thing like this.!
haley kinney says
Hi, I hope someone can help me. My son is 15 weeks and will get a bulging fontanelle sometimes. We have had blood tests all normal and a ct scan which was normal.. It is not just when he lays down or crys. It will be in the morning when he gets up or at night. I need answers I am worried sick.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
I’m so sorry you’re so worried, Haley. Can you schedule a visit to see your son’s pediatrician or another pediatrician for a second opinion? It’s impossible for me to tell you over this blog if your son’s soft spot is normal or not. Really think if you’re this worried it makes sense to go in with your son for reassurance.
richa says
my baby 11 month old posterior soft spot is closed and bony like other bones of skull but it little indented againt the other bones what it could be please any body help
Nikola says
I took my son to his 9 month old visit today. She referred me for a CT scan bc she feels like the soft spot has closed, but a ct scan can reveal it hasn’t. After reading I have learned that kids soft spots can close early and it’s ok. So why the CT scan?
There are no other worries.
His head has always been in the small %. We are finally in the double digits at 14%.
Thanks
Alaina Willims says
Hi my 5month old daughter just got over a 2 week cold last week. Within the last two days she has not been wanting to sleep on her back at night, so i let her sleep on her belly. Now her soft spot is bulging. she is not showing any signs that something is wrong. she is still happy eating good sleeping good overall happy healthy baby but the bulge is still there. I called my hospital and spoke with two different nurses who both said the same thing “if she isn’t showing signs that she is sick or in distress that she is ok” I am still worried though and debating taking her to the dr. any suggestions or input would be greatly appreciated/
Tammy Jo says
my child still has a soft spot at 27 months, Doctors are going to do a scan and say that the brain is growing to fast for it to close. What are some best/worse results that we might run into? I would like to study up on them so I might be better prepared.
Amy Nisley says
My daughter is almost four and she has down syndrome. Her frontal soft sport is still open. Her head/body is proportionate, she is just extremely small for her age. The pediatrician isn’t terribly worried about it, but I am starting to be with how active she is. She is a typical 3-4 year old and as smart as can be. If it doesn’t close up soon, what is the treatment to help fix it?
Amy Nisley says
Could someone please comment on my previous question? I am not sure if I should take my daughter to a specialist as her pediatrician isn’t worried.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
sorry I missed responding. Comment is in as a reply!
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Hi Amy,
I can’t provide direct medical consultation here on the blog. If you’re not comfortable with what you’ve heard or don’t feel you have complete answers it’s my recommendation to get a second opinion. You could consult another pediatrician in your area or a craniofacial expert at Children’s if you’re here in Seattle. https://www.seattlechildrens.org/clinics-programs/craniofacial/
Amanda says
My son is almost 3months and his soft spot seemed to cave in and someone told me that due to that itll make him sick like throwingup , diarrhea , and fussy/uncomfortable . But he seems like himself to.me . I just dnt want him uncomfortable or to hurt . His doctor tells me everything iS fine with his softspot but im worried .
Ppl also tell me there is a way to make his soft spot go back up but im too scared to do that . It worries me . Is it ok for his soft spot to have fallen in like that . What can i do ?
Diane Bingham says
For Doctor…
My anterior fontanelle is open…I feel a deep groove and gap of over 1/2 inch between the two bones, which is somewhat soft. I have only checked one other adult head which was hard and fused. I am 52 yrs of age, Have you seen this before?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Talk with your doctor, Diane. Really hard to respond here on a blog post unfortunately. A discussion and physical exam with them is likely the most fruitful way to get your concerns/questions answered.
Helper says
If you re old enough but have that soft head at the top of head..thats something very very spiritualyou are lucky people nd u should meditate..go and search 10th door on google… or search DASAM DWAR .. you l come to know what i am talking about
Afshan Iftikhar says
hey,
I delivered a baby girl a week ago at the cornell hospital in NY.Delivery was normal with no assistance whatsoever.The baby and I were discharged after 2 days.The baby was termed to be perfectly normal.After a week i went to my paedetrician for babies check up. My paedetrician was surprises at the extremely large anterior fontanelle around 12-13cm anteroposteriorly.But her head circumference fell in the 20th percentile.And there are no other symptoms associated with the wide fontanelle.
I am extremely worried.My paedetrician has asked me to wait for a month to reassess.
Can it be physiological?
thnx
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Fontanelles really do vary in size! Keep regular follow-up with your physician to ensure normal brain growth (head circumference) and care.
As I’ve mentioned here before, sometimes pediatricians will also draw a TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) to ensure baby has normal thyroid levels if a fontanelle is wide. You may ask your pediatrician about that if your baby hasn’t had that lab drawn yet.
Shez says
Hi, my son has a very large fontanelle at 7 months of age. It seems to be larger one one side (asymmetrical). The suture line also comes down toward his forehead not in line with his nose, more in line with his eye on the side the fontanelle is larger on. Never seen it before
Emily Cole says
My son is just about 6 weeks old. About 2 weeks ago I noticed a small bulge right behind his soft spot on the top of his head. It felt like there could be fluid underneath. When he was lying down, the bulge went down, but when in an upright position, it came back. I brought him to the doctor immediately, as I had never seen this with my other 2 boys. The doctor said it was completely normal. I felt at ease hearing this, but now, the bulge is even bigger and no matter what position my son is in, the bulge remains. It doesn’t seem to bother my son when I touch it, but it is very worrisome to me. Could my pediatrician have been wrong about this bulge being normal especially since it has changed? Could there really be a fluid build up? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
Conchi says
For the doctor…
First of all, thanks so much for the article. I would love clarification on a question I have. At around 6 month of age, I was giving a bath to my baby when I noticed that her anterior fontanelle felt smaller than before. I got worried because I thought that it was too early to start closing. I had the dictor check it out at her 6 month appointment and then again at 7 months (we went in for an unrelated cause) and then again at 9 months. She has always said her fontanelle was within normal range. Today when we brought the baby to our bed I was caressing her head and almost had a heart attack because I couldn’t feel her anterior fontanelle. After a lot of probing, I thought I found it but it seems almost closed if not completely closed. Last time I felt it it was a few days ago. She was standing up. Would the position she is, upright vs lying down, make a difference in how it feels? Her head percentile is around 75% and it has been consistent since birth. She is 10 and a half months old, would this be considered early closure? I know in your article it says closure can happen between 7-19 months of age but my pediatrician keeps throwing the number 18 months when she is talking about closure of anterior fontanelle. And now that I had finally trained myself to feel her fontanelle only once a day! Thanks for your help!
Lianne says
Hi. I have a 21month son and hes always had abit of a large fprhead but as ges gettinf older im noticing it alot more. I took him to the doctors yesterday and they said he does have a large head but if hes meeting his mile stones and not vomiting and his eyes are fine then he should be ok. What concerns me is on both side of his head theres a dip about my little finger long where the fontanelle hasnt joined yet. Im being refered to a pediatrician just to check but i am really worried. Is it normal for him to have his fontanelle not quite ‘together’ at 21 months?
Lianne says
Btw i am in the uk..we only have health visitors and docs not pediatraicias on call have to be referred to see one of them
Lindsay says
For the Doctor,
Worried about ant. font. soft spot of 9 month old son. Since 6 months he’s been in top 95% for head (ofc) measurement- his soft spot is almost closed. We already had X-ray and came back with no frontal bossing. He has a shape that is rounding out nicer now-He is right on target for all developmental milestones(cog., language, gross/fine motor, social). Do you think this will lead to a procedure?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
I can’t, unfortunately, provide individual medical advice here.
In general, pediatricians should be following the rate of head growth monthly if concerned about head growth. I always recommend that parents check in with their pediatrician if ongoing concerns or if you’re not tracking growth closely.
Violet says
Hello.
My 16 month old son was climbing in the bathroom cupboard and stood up and hit the edge of the wood directly on anterior soft spot. There is a small hard bump near or partly on the soft spot , hard to tell because the soft spot is small. He is acting fine but I’m freaking out. It’s bed time too so I’m not sure whether to let him sleep or not. Your time and answer is very appreciated thank you.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Sorry for not seeing this sooner — can’t unfortunately comment on individual or urgent health care needs here. Hoping you connected with your son’s health care team/pediatrician’s office.
Bernadette Morris says
I have had a soft spot since I was born and I am nineteen years old. I’ve always known that I had one for awhile but I didn’t understand how large it was until I buzzed my hair off yesterday.The lump is a little bigger than the diameter of a quarter and its raised as though I was conked on the head. Is it normal to still have these soft spots as you get older?
jade c says
My daughter is nearly 6 months old and her soft spot is raised up and feels quite firm. She has been fussy about eating and just wants to sleep all the time. Took her to see Gp and she said she seems healthy and didn’t know why it was like this. As I was leaving she said babies can diteriorate very quickly so to keep close eye on her which did not reassure me. Should I be worried or get a second opinion ?
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
I think if you’re really worried about the soft spot or your child’s condition and you aren’t reassured after a visit a second opinion is ALWAYS okay.
faith says
I have a quick question. I just felt the top of my 19 month old boys head. He has a soft spot on the front of his head.. it goes normal to soft spot to normal on the front of his head. Is there anything to worry about? Is he fine? Just a quick question.
erika says
Glad to see you still reply on here. So I have a 7 month old little boy. He went to his well baby today yes he was a month behind been having issues finding a good pediatrician. (Its military doctors if thats any indication has to how his visita go) anywas today at his visit his doctor noticed his head growth went down a little in percentile. She checked his soft spot and she said it is small for his age. She wants to keep an eye on it. Hes developing just fine. Hes a very active lil guy. Always smiling laughing baby talking (actually just said mama this wk!) Moving around great. I was always a little concerned about him having a little domebut never asked his doctors about it. This is the first time a doctor even said something to me about it. She did say she does look at the parents to get an idea if small heads are genetic and I do have a little head. But im worried now. What signs should I look for? When should I take him back to his doctor? His next well baby is at 9 months. She said his soft spot is still there its just small and let’s pray it doesnt get any smaller any time soon. Not real confindent sounding.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
I can’t give specific medical advice here. However, if you’re worried and really want a recheck, a 1 month interval is sufficient to check for head size growth, so you could go in at 8months if you remain concerned.
Prashant says
Hi there.
so much happy to see this post here..would you pls pls help me..My 8 months daughter has a very soft spot right at the top of her head at left side to near by ear line ..I would say its 3 cm/3cm big with ovel shape…feels like filled with watery things…no color chane on skin, playing well eating well developing well , everything else is perfect with her health, she doesn’t react any ways even i touch the spot or try to give light massage. would you pls help me to inform if will harm her anymore in the future? should I consult to any specialist?
Only thing I have noticed on her is she sleeps on her right hand side of the head more often than the left and the spot is at left side.
pls pls..your advice will be highly appreciated .
Christine Magbiro says
Hi 1 How’s your baby? cause I think we have the same scenario. Thanks
Anna says
I was holding my 2 month old and i was bending over a lil to pick something up and her soft spot pressed against my chin, should i worry? She was sleeping and a few moments later did a high pitch whine which she rarely does, but i woke her up and she seemed fine and her pupils are responding to light, can accidents like that cause internal bleeding, I’m so worried please respond back
Gen says
Hi Dr Swanson,
Thank you for this article and to everyone for these posts. It is nice to know that I am not the only mom worrying about this. A while ago I was shifting my son from one arm to the other over the changing table and I guess I was tired because I hit his head into the wooden picture frame on the wall. (I think on his posterior fontanelle.) He cried (I cannot remember if he threw up) and fell asleep. My husband assured me he was fine and while I was very worried, I dont remember noticing anything strange the next day. I was reading through this baby book I have the other day for unrelated reasons and came upon a section that talks about head concussions and then I started to think perhaps did he get knocked unconscious? If I had thought that at the time I would have called the doctor immediately! I didnt think I hit his head that hard but since reading about this I have been worrying nonstop. Also, his head is above the 98th percentile for his age at 4 months. I brought the fact that I was nervous about his head getting bumped generally to the dr and how I was nervous that his head was so big but really got no response from the dr. Perhaps I should have been more specific about my questions to the doctor. Should I still be concerned? Thank you so much for your time.
Veronica says
Hello so my sons family on both sides have extremely big head i mean wow even the women its crazy everyone always made fun of me saying poor you when you have a baby. well when he was born his head didnt really look so big but then again i was pushing for so long his head came out like a cone head went down pretty quick every check up he got his head grew alot but he grew alot too he was 6.14 pounds and i believe 19 or 18 inches at birth all i can remember is that at 4 month he measure 44 cm Now at 14 months he measures 49cm 19.5 inches 25 pounds and 32 inch tall well one of the doctors that i had only seen 2 times because his main doctor wasnt available made a big deal that his head has grown to quick this was at his 9 month visit hence i didnt get told how much … Well the problem is his soft spot is still open and she was worried i told her i am not because his family has really big heads and i mean i think its kind of good it hasnt closed because his head keeps growing well they want to keep checking him monthly to make sure its closed but im sure its not going to anytime soon it feels alil big maybe like the size of a quarter . they also suggested MRI or CT scan hmmm should i be worried they are freaking me out i always knew he would be big headed his papa has a huge head i am a first time mom and i have been freaking out he is so smart talks alot runs walks crawls just amazing how bright my son is and he doesnt act sick never has he was breastfeed till 11 months.. please any answers would be good..
Veronica says
its me again i forgot to mention when he was 4 months he was in the 90% percentile then i went to this other doc and the assistant said 75% percentile so i go again with this doc 2 months later again in the 90% percentile i dont know i think they did not measure my son correctly…
Rose Carney says
Hi, I’m a little bit concerned with my almost 5 year olds forehead shape. I noticed it a bit when she was younger but never really thought too much of it since her pediatrcian never mentioned it or had any concerns with it, took her measurement on many occassions and made sure her soft spot was right on track, and closing up. He never showed concerns but it makes me wonder because it seems as though is it getting worse, it’s like if I run my palm across her forehead I can feel the left side comes out quite a bit. And when she wears a snow hat, it looks very obvious to me that the one side is further back? What is this? Should I be concerned? Thanks so much!
Catherine Nziuko says
My son is 3 months old and I noticed black patches around his soft spot.What could this be?
Amutha says
Hi, my son is 23 months old, when he was born i didnt notice any soft spot in front… i am not aware it may be an issue, later he had kind of bump in that area as he grows, not its almost gone with little mild lump like i feel only whrn i touch . He is not understanding my talk and yet to talk. is there any concern with him. I came accross may website why he hasnt started to talk. Please advice
Carla says
Hi I have a 6 month old almost 7 in 2 days, I’m super scare, the soft spot everyone speaks of seems it has close, when he was 2 months I notice it being very narrow and small, I’ve been keeping up with he’s pediatrician every month until now that it feels close, she want him to go to the Specialist, she doesn’t seem very concern because he’s developing well the circumference of his head has been growing, just this time she says she does notice a slight narrow forehead she’s assuming that frontelle has close but possibly not the back part of his head which may be contributing to a narrowing forehead but she also said it can be just genetics the cause of the shape of his head, still wants me to take him in and see what they suggest, am super anxious since I have no clue what to expect, he’s been developing well, he’s meeting to all his milestones no concerns there, also wanna mention when he was bout 3-4 months X-rays were taken base on the on those X-rays the side openings weren’t fuse together yet, but a ct scan was recommended to ensure that, his pediatrician felt he was too small since he would need to be put to sleep, so every month after that until now I was taking him to get his head check and make sure it’s growing. I’m scare I know you can’t give me any diognosis through here but really looking forward for any hope he will be ok! HELP
Maurice says
My son is 4 1/2 years old and still has a soft spot. He has NF1 and the doctor suggested we have surgery to close it. Does anyone know other alternatives to close the soft spot besides surgery?
Thanks in Advance.
Vyvyn says
Hello, my name is Vyvyn, I am currently 18 years old and my posterior fontanel is still not fully closed/developed. By this time the portion where my posterior fontanel is located has not grown any hair, is lower than the other portions of my skull and is really sensitive when touched at times. I haven’t heard of other cases like mine, and only now did I know I wasn’t alone.
Tanya Olivier says
Good day dr Swanson
I am e-mailing all the way from South Africa. My 25 month old daughter’s soft spot is not closed as yet butt feels harder then a soft spot of a 12 month old for example. Is this normal for her age or should I be concerned?
halima says
Hi. so happy to come across your website. Am so worried about my 5 month old son. I noticed fluid dripping from the anterior soft spot. The soft spot still contain fluid. My Doc. prescribed amoxcline and flagyl.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
The antibiotics you mention may be used for a superficial skin infection — but I’d recommend you check in with your 5 month old’s physician to get more clarity with what you’re treating and why!
Megan Lewis says
Hello Dr. Swanson,
I would love your input. Our 19.5month daughter has been followed by a pediatric neurologist for macrocephaly since she was 15 months. Blood work and head ultrasound were within normal ranges. Now her anterior fontanelle continues to stay open about 3 finger widths wide. She is happy and has no developmental delays. Her neurologist recommends an MRI but as a choice for us to make. Of course she would have to be sedated. Should we wait longer to see if it closes? What is your experience with this…is a MRI really necessary at this time? I would hate to wait and have it be something serious but at the same time she has no neurological symptoms making me not want to put her through getting an IV and anesthesia. Thank you!!
Megan Lewis
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Hi Megan,
I can’t unfortunately provide medical advice or decision-making here on the blog. However I can say this: all interventions (and non-interventions) are a choice made where we balance risks and benefits.
Can you revisit the choices with your neurologists in more detail so you really undestand what you’ll potentially rule-out/rule-in from the MRI and the risks involved? Maybe then it will be easier for you to determine the risk/benefit balance in doing it or not at this time.
msmsms says
A 2.7 years old child has the spot spot till open. chkd with doctor and everything is normal. please let me know is this normal. or will it lead to a issue in future.
Julie says
My son is 10 weeks old. He had surgery on January 19th for laryngomalasia. He was discharged 2 days later. I noticed the day after bringing him home that his soft spot was sunken in, the next day it went back to normal and the day after that it was bulging. It only bulged for one day and then was normal again. He just had a second surgery for the same thing on February 15th and the exact same thing happened with his soft spot. Of course he had to fast before surgery and it took a good day for him to start eating normal due to the type of surgery. Do you think this is related to dehydration or something else?
Shy says
My baby is three months old and her fotanelle is on her forehead i dont know if its normal please help
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Fontanelles and openings can extend into the forehead. Talk with you pediatrician at the next check up — ask specifically to have them evaluate and reassure you!
Ellen says
Hi. My granddaughter is almost 4 most old and I accidently pressed her soft spot while trying to put a onsie on her. She had no reaction, but of.course it freaked me out. How worried should I be?
Karen says
What is normal course of care for a 32mth old with an open anterior fontanel? So far, my doctors are not concerned, but have not done any testing either. I know it’s outside the range of normal and that there is no treatment, but I’m concerned it’s a symptom of something – a syndrome, a growth problem, I don’t even know what else. What is usual course of care?
Julia says
Hi please help my son was born following a bad forceps delivery, he had very severe behaviour problems from day one, he head banged till age 3 also he screamed continuously the first 3 years and had delayed speech till age 5. He doesn’t feel pain or hot or cold temperatures, has major comprehension issues in many areas,huge social skill issues, extremly clumsy continuously falls over fresh air or down the bottom 2 or 3 steps, difficulties with co ordination and is simply unable to turn corners, he is extremely hyperactive and he’s behaviour is extremly destructive if left unattended he will just break and smash everything he touches cos his behaviour is so severe he literally climbs the walls, from when first mobile as a toddler he psychically attacked every child he encountered unprovoked and was completely unable to control himself from doing this. My sons cranielle fontenelle didn’t close until he was age ten years and when it did he suffered agonising headaches even though before then he was completely unable to feel any kind of pain or temperature at all. Headaches lasted all day and every day for 3 month period. He also has a strange shaped chest and is now an adult standing at nearly 7 foot tall. Right up until his fontenelle closed he had like a step in his fontenelle there were two levels and in between the two levels u could seen a thin layer of skin and what I can only describe as looking like it was pulsing? After his fontenelle closed and headaches stopped he went back to not feeling pain and being unable to feel hot and cold temperatures and he has like a band across were his head had now joined I’m so concerned for my son please can u advise me in any way ?
Emd2015 says
Hi I was hoping you could maybe give me some advice or information. My little man is 9 months old and at his Developmental check up the PHN seemed very concerned about his fontanelle being closed the size of his head in line with previous checks and the fact he has a ridge on his forehead. I had to get him checked BT my GP who was in contact with a paediatrician who has asked for him to be referred. The doctor mentioned he will prob need a brain scan as to check for fluids. 9 was go ogling and finding all sorts and very confused worried upset emotional …. and not gettinga wink of sleep. In your opinion what do you think it might be or what should I prepare myself for. Any and all advice is welcome.
Bianca says
Hello, last night I reached for my phone and it fell out of my hands and on my baby’s head. Now there’s an indent on the top of her scalp. She cried for w5 seconds and seems fine she will be 4 weeks old this Friday. Should I be worried will this indent or groove go away did I cause damage? I’m really worried. I ran my fingers over it gently and she didn’t budge. I feel so stupid. It hit her pretty hard
Leonie Thursfield says
Hi. My name is Leonie. My son is 11 month old. Even from the time he was around 4 months old I could feel nothing soft on his head. Is it possible for it to be closed. ? His growth is exceptionally good. 13kg for 11 months.
MARIEBETH says
Hi,
Any advice please.. a week ago I felt my 11months baby has a big soft spot in her right head I immediate send her to a doctor and undergone head x-ray. The result was good it doesn’t show any head fracture, but what makes me worry about the soft looks like lump now.. I have poke it many times to check if she will feel any pain but she does not. I am very scared to death because August 22, 2017 she fell from a sofa she cried a lot but after a while she’s active playing and laughing.. any advice please. Thank you.
Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, MBE says
Unfortunately I cannot give medical advice directly here. If you’re worried and remain so, please see your child’s pediatrician! I suspect they will really help you feel better!
valerie says
hi. I was wondering if you could help me just feel better about my son. he is 2 yrs old and his soft spot has closed but he has what feels like a huge soft spot in the middle of his skull and then it has a lump where his soft spot used to be on the front of the skull. it’s like a wave high in the back, then indented, and then high in the front. and the indention isn’t soft it just feels like his soft spot did. hope thats not too confusing. lol. please help.
Pury says
Hey, my 4 months old has very thick long African curly hair and the front fontanelle if fully covered.Somebody mentioned to me that when the hair is washed the soft spot remain wet and water is absorbed into the brain..Is this true or its just a myth? I was being advised to cut his hair short 🙁
Heather says
I have a 4year old son he will be 5 in June. the other day I noticed a dip in the center of his head and when I rubbed my finger along it, it still feels like a soft spot on a baby. He has a doctor app coming up but it worries me. I don’t know if I’m over reacting. But why would this be?
Kitan says
Hii all,
I have a son just 6 days old now..yesterday we visited pedia for his first cheakup and she said babies head soft spot is just half a finger big so its considered as preclosed softspot….we need to keep checking his growth everymontj for 1 year else we have to do a surgery…plz help me I am very tensed…what to do so the spot can get bigger or is it a very big issue….do baby will have any abnormelity due to this.
Plz reply
Ligi says
Hi, me ligi, my daughter is 2months old,still posterior fontanelle open..is it normal?
John Nash says
My daughter has no soft spot is that normal must I be worried,she is two weeks now
Ariana says
Hi my son is almost 3 months old and his soft spot does not pulsate, it’s softer than other parts of his head so it’s definitely the soft spot but I can’t see or feel any pulsating…
Ashley says
My daughter is 2 years old and the soft spot on her head is still there. Should I be worried? She has fell and hit her head a couple of times, could that be the reason why?
Huda says
My nephew is 3 years old. His soft spot is still open. He is a smart kid but smaller than the rest. His motor skills aren’t perfect. Still doesn’t jump or go up and down the stairs. His nose is forever blocked. We did a surgery to remove excess fom inside his nose and help him breath better but that lasted 6 months. Now he is breathing from his nose again. Went to several doctors and he still remains a mystery. No one know why he is stuck and not developing (imagine a18 month – 2 yr old kid). Not sure how to help with his breathing.
Any advice is much appreciated. We don’t know what to do
Emily says
Hi, My 7yrs old daughter’s posterior fontanelle, seems not close yet. I saw from this post, Lesley Blundell’s 18yrs old daughter case. I want to know how the doctor cure for Lesley Blundell’s daughter.
My daughter is growing very well, but I find there is an uneven area around posterior fontanelle triangle cage. Paediatric says it’s normal but he didn’t touch and feel it.
I want to know what kind of things can happen if the posterior fontanelle is not closed, and how we could help it to close.
maria says
My 25 months twins his soft spot still not closed.bt his seems healthy cause I never noticed something wrong abt him bt the other twins soft spot closed I’m so worried.That soft spot is still big bt he is not sick dnt knw wht to do.even his head is normal