Headaches are a common occurrence for many people. While most headaches are not serious, some can be quite painful. One type of painful headache is a sharp pain on the side of the head that comes and goes. This article will discuss the causes of this type of headache and what can be done to alleviate the discomfort.
Painful Headaches
Sharp pains on the side of the head can be caused by a variety of issues, such as tension headaches, migraines, or sinus infections. These types of headaches are usually characterized by a dull, throbbing pain that is accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. The pain is often localized to one side of the head and can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours.
Intermittent Discomfort
In some cases, the sharp pain on the side of the head may be caused by something less serious, such as a muscle spasm or a pinched nerve. These types of headaches can be quite painful but usually only last for a few minutes at a time. The pain may be accompanied by other symptoms such as neck pain, dizziness, and blurred vision.
To alleviate this type of headache, it is important to identify the underlying cause. If the cause is determined to be tension headaches or migraines, then over-the-counter pain medications may be helpful in relieving the discomfort. If the cause is determined to be a pinched nerve or muscle spasm, then rest and ice or heat therapy may be beneficial.
Sharp pain on the side of the head can be a sign of a more serious medical condition, so it is important to seek medical attention if the pain persists. If the pain is determined to be caused by tension headaches or migraines, then over-the-counter medications may help to alleviate the discomfort. If the cause is determined to be a pinched nerve or muscle spasm, then rest and heat or ice therapy may be beneficial.
Sharp pain that appears on the side of the head can be disconcerting and difficult to diagnose. The pain can occur suddenly and without warning or may come and go, making it difficult to diagnose the root cause. Common causes of this condition include migraines, sinus infections, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Migraine headaches can cause sharp pain on one side of the head that may come and go. People who suffer from migraines may also experience other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and visual disturbances. Migraines may last for minutes or hours and tend to occur more frequently in those who have a family history of migraines. Treatment can range from lifestyle modifications to medications.
Sinus infections and allergies may also cause this type of sharp pain. The pain often worsens when bending over, as this puts pressure on the sinuses. Symptoms such as nasal congestion, yellow or green discharge from the nose, and a fever may also accompany the pain. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections, and antihistamines or steroid nasal sprays may be prescribed for allergies.
TMJ disorders can cause pain that radiates to the head and neck. Jaw popping or clicking, difficulty opening the mouth wide, and ear pain or ringing can all be symptoms of a TMJ disorder. Treatment options can range from lifestyle modifications to surgery, and may include muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and splints.
If you experience sharp pain on one side of the head that comes and goes, it is important to seek medical attention to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of the pain. A medical professional can determine the best course of treatment depending on your medical history and the diagnosis.