Understanding Left Side Head Pain: Symptoms, causes, and Treatment

Headaches are common, but they can disrupt your day and make it hard to focus. When the pain is on the left side of your head, it could mean more than just a simple headache. The causes range from stress and fatigue to specific health conditions like migraines or sinus issues. Knowing the types, causes, symptoms, and treatments can help you manage or even prevent these headaches. Let’s dive deeper into understanding left-sided headaches and how to find relief.

Types of left-sided headaches

Headaches have different forms. This throbbing can come at different intensities and locations, with fewer explanations for its incoming. Most commonly, there are the following types:

1. Tension

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache worldwide. They impact over 75% of adults. It feels like a band is tightening around your head, compressing your face and scalp. You can feel pressure on one or both sides and at the back of your head. Your shoulders and neck may also be sore.

2. Migraine

Migraine is one of the most common conditions in the world, affecting roughly 1 out of every 6 people. Women are 2 to 3 times more prone to migraines than males.

Symptoms include a sharp, throbbing ache on one side of the head. Pain is frequently accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to sound and light.

3. Cluster

Cluster headaches are uncommon but extremely painful headaches that are more prevalent among men. Women may experience more severe symptoms, although this finding is based on only one study and additional research is needed.

Cluster headaches occur in clusters throughout days or weeks, as indicated by their name. Cluster episodes are followed by remissions, which can last months or years without causing headaches. When you have one, you will feel severe pain on one side of your head. The eye on your affected side may be red, runny, or painful.

4. Sinus headaches

A sinus infection (sinusitis) and inflammation can produce severe headaches. They are typically mild-to-moderate in intensity but can be severe on occasion. In this situation, the infection could be more serious, necessitating additional medical attention.

Symptoms of sinus headaches include diffuse pressure behind the eyes, sides of the nose, and even right above the teeth. They are generally accompanied by congestion, stuffiness, or postnasal drainage. They may induce eye pain, ear discomfort, and bilateral headaches. The headache may occasionally be limited to one side.

5. Chronic

Chronic headaches can take any form, such as migraines or tension headaches. They are referred to as chronic because they occur at least 15 days per month for 6 months or more.

Depending on the type, headaches can cause slow throbbing pain, acute discomfort on one side, or a vice-like squeezing sensation.

6. Cervicogenic

A cervicogenic headache occurs when you suffer from a neck condition. It can be caused by a variety of ailments, including osteoarthritis, injury, or simply poor posture.

Symptoms of this illness include headaches on one side of the face or head. You may also have soreness around your eyes. Your neck will usually pain.

7. Hemicrania continua

A severe headache that exclusively affects the left or right side of the head is known as haemorrhage continua. The chronic and ongoing discomfort is what distinguishes this form of headache. You never get over your headache; you're always in pain. It usually maintains a steady level, though it might occasionally rise.

8. SUNCT and SUNA

Short-term, unilateral neuralgiform headache episodes with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) and unilateral neuralgiform headache with autonomic symptoms (SUNA) are related headache types. They always appear on one side of the head.

These headaches are extremely uncommon, with an incidence of only 6.6 per 100,000. The cause is not completely understood.

Symptoms of SUNCT or SUNA include acute, stabbing, or burning pains that come and go quickly. They are frequently associated with symptoms such as nasal congestion and puffy eyes.

9. Hypnic headache

A hypnic headache occurs while you sleep, frequently forcing you to awaken. One out of every three people who suffer these headaches will have significant pain.

Symptoms include headaches on each side of the head. The pain might be mild, throbbing, or severe and stabbing.

10. New daily persistent headache 

A new daily persistent headache (NDPH) appears unexpectedly yet frequently reoccurs after the first episode. It may affect one or both sides of the head. This headache has a throbbing sensation comparable to a stress headache. What defines it is that you can remember the specific day or time when you first developed it.

11. Post-traumatic

A post-traumatic headache may develop as a result of a head injury. Researchers believe that head injuries may cause migraine headaches, however, this has not been proven.

You may experience pain on one side of your head, which can worsen when you exert yourself. You may also be light-sensitive.

Left-sided headache causes

Headaches can be triggered by many factors. Knowing the cause can help you treat it better. Here are the most common reasons for headaches on the left side:

1. Stress and anxiety

When you are stressed, your muscles, including those in your head and neck, can tighten. This tension can cause headaches.

2. Sleep deprivation

If you don’t get enough sleep, your body doesn’t have time to recover. This can lead to headaches, especially in the morning or after a long day.

3. Dehydration

Not drinking enough water can cause dehydration, which is a common cause of headaches. When your body doesn’t have enough fluids, it can’t function properly, leading to pain.

4. Eye strain

Spending too much time looking at screens—whether it’s your phone, computer, or TV—can strain your eyes and cause headaches. Poor lighting or needing glasses can make this worse.

Sinus problems

If your sinuses are blocked or infected, they can create pressure in your head, leading to pain on one side.

Lifestyle choices

Skipping meals, eating unhealthy food, drinking too much caffeine, or consuming alcohol can also cause headaches. A busy lifestyle with little time for rest can worsen the problem.

Physiotherapy for left-side head pain

If you have pain on the left side of your head, physiotherapy can help. It works well if tight muscles, bad posture, or neck problems cause the pain. Here’s how physiotherapy can help:

• Fixing posture: Bad posture can hurt your neck and cause headaches. Physiotherapy teaches you how to sit and stand correctly.
• Manual therapy: A physiotherapist gently moves your neck and shoulders to relax tight muscles and reduce pain.
• Stretching exercises: Simple stretches strengthen your neck and back muscles and reduce tension.
• Workplace tips: A physiotherapist will tell you how to set up your chair and desk to avoid pain.
• Relaxing neck muscles: Special methods release muscle knots in your neck, shoulders, and head.

Simple changes, like fixing posture and relaxing muscles, can reduce head pain. At TruePal, we help you live without pain and feel better daily.

What would be the next symptom of migraine or sinus?

Understanding the symptoms of migraines or sinus headaches can help you identify and treat them early.

Migraine symptoms

• A migraine usually starts with throbbing pain on one side of the head.
• You may feel nausea or even vomit.
• Sensitivity to bright lights, loud sounds, or strong smells is common.
• Some people experience "auras," which are warning signs like flashing lights or blurred vision before the headache starts.

Sinus symptoms

• Sinus headaches often begin with a stuffy or runny nose.
• You may feel pressure or pain around your cheeks, forehead, or nose.
• In severe cases, you might have a fever, which indicates an infection.

How to prevent side headaches?

Prevention is always better than cure. You can take steps to reduce the chances of getting a headache.

• Sleep is essential. Get 7–8 hours of good sleep every night.
• Eat regular meals. Do not skip your meals; it aggravates headaches.
• Stay hydrated. Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
• Limit screen time. Do not sit glued to your devices for more than 20 mins.
• Sit up straight, especially if your work is office-based.

Migraines and cluster headaches: What to watch for

• Keep a diary to track what triggers your migraines. Triggers can include specific foods, stress, or hormonal changes.
• Avoid bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells, as they can make migraines worse.
• If you experience cluster headaches, try to stay in a cool, dark, and quiet room.

When to consult a doctor for persistent pain

• If your headaches last for more than a week or keep coming back, see a doctor.
• If the pain gets worse or doesn’t improve with medicines, seek medical help.
• Other warning signs include vision problems, confusion, or weakness.

Effective treatments: Medications and home remedies

Medications

• Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can provide quick relief.
• For migraines, your doctor may prescribe medicines that target the root cause.
• Sinus infections may require antibiotics if caused by bacteria.

Home remedies

• Apply a cold pack to the painful area to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
• Use a warm compress for sinus headaches to loosen mucus and ease pressure.
• Drink herbal teas like ginger or peppermint, which can soothe nausea and headaches.
• Massage your temples or the back of your neck to relieve tension.
• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress.

Takeaway

Several types of migraines cause pain on only one side of the head. Over-the-counter drugs and lifestyle modifications, such as getting more rest, can usually help reduce these headaches. See your doctor if you get severe headaches that are interfering with your daily life. Your doctor can determine what is causing your headaches and offer therapies to help you manage them.

At TruePal, we focus on your overall well-being. Our programs include yoga, diet plans, and stress-relief techniques to help you lead a healthy and pain-free life. Remember, small steps can lead to big improvements in your health.

Visit TruePal to explore lifestyle tips and wellness programs tailored for you. Take charge of your health today!

FAQs

1. How do I get rid of a headache on the left side?

The treatment for a headache on the left side of your head depends on the cause. Drinking water, resting, or eating anything can all help ease headaches. However, if your pain is severe, persistent, or does not respond to over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines, you may require medical assistance.

2. When should I be concerned about left-side head pain?

You should see a doctor right away if you have sudden and severe head pain or pressure on the left side, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as confusion, vision issues, or difficulty speaking. These symptoms indicate a dangerous ailment requiring quick medical intervention.

3. What is a headache on one side of your head?

A headache can occur on either one or both sides of the head. Many factors, including dehydration, stress, migraines, and sinus congestion, can induce a headache on one side of the head. Serious causes include brain inflammation, serious infection, and brain cancer.

4. How does TruePal help manage chronic headaches?

TruePal manages persistent headaches by providing tailored nutrition regimens, stress-relief tactics such as yoga and meditation, hydration suggestions, and sleep improvement strategies. Our holistic approach focuses on fundamental issues, providing long-term treatment and total wellness that is personalised to your specific circumstances.

5. What is a terrible headache behind your left eye?

A severe headache behind the left eye might be caused by dangerous disorders such as a brain aneurysm, which necessitates immediate medical attention. Other disorders, such as sinus pressure, migraines, and cervicogenic headaches, can induce a headache behind one eye.

6. What are the best remedies for stress-induced head pain?'

Gentle massage of your head and neck muscles may bring relief. If your headaches are caused by tension or anxiety, you may wish to practice relaxation techniques. Aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen are all examples of over-the-counter pain relievers.