Mysterious popping in head?

I would recommend she sees her doctor, or a doctor.

If it’s physical possible that it’s some bones grinding in a funny way, some sort of inner ear infection, or possibly a brain tumor. It also could be some sort of psychological thing (and very possibly harmless).

Without some sort of phsyical exam from a doctor, not a clue what it could be.

An examination by a physician is the best way to have this evaluated and diagnosed.

You have only mentioned two symptoms:
1) A popping sound in her head. Since it is not localized to one or the other ear, and you don’t mention tinnitus (ringing/humming/buzzing in the ear), decreased hearing, or vertigo (spinning dizziness) it is not likely an inner ear problem.

2) She feels hot. Does she have a fever? Has she taken get temperature or if others touch her does she feel feverish? OR is it that she feels like the room is hot and she can’t get enough air? Since you don’t mention the above ear-related conditions, as well as no mention of pain or pressure in the ear(s), it is not likely to be a middle ear problem.

I am an Audiologist, and therefore only ears, hearing and balance are my expertise, which is why I’ve addressed those (and also since @grumpyfish suggested an inner ear infection).

When she does go to a physician, it will be beneficial for her to be able to answer the questions I’ve asked and to mention any and all other symptoms – even if they seem unrelated. I’d also be sure to mention any medications, dietary supplements, alcohol, caffiene, and illicit drug use.

Based on the extremely limited information you’ve offered thus far, my gut instinct is suggesting something more systemic, like endocrinal/hormonal, which can be influenced by what we eat and drink.

Sounds an awful lot like popcorn to me.

Is it repeated crackling/popping like a popcorn sound (thanks, @jfos, for giving me something to compare it to), or is it just one loud noise like an explosion?

@MacBean A single sound, more like an explosion.

The spine does go up pretty far… it could be a tiny bone.

Then I’d guess it’s probably Exploding Head Syndrome. I have it. It’s annoying/distressing but harmless.

Edit: Which isn’t to say that it couldn’t be something else. She probably should mention it to a doctor, as everyone else suggested, just to be sure. Better safe than sorry!

@MacBean I thought your link would be a joke of somekind, but it’s real. I learned something today.

@YARNLADY: I KNOW! When I first heard the term, I thought it had to be a joke, too. But then I read it and I was overjoyed that there was actually a name—and a damn amusing one, no less!—for this weird thing that happens to me. That was a good day. :)

Yeah I thought you were mocking me at first, but then I went on real wikipedia and looked it up and made sure you hadn’t quickly set up that page:)

But thanks, it’s really helpful, I forwarded it to the head-popper and it fits the description perfectly!