Headache on the Left Side of Head: Causes and How to Heal Them

A headache on the left side of the head might seem puzzling, but it is often linked to common issues like stress or eye strain. Sometimes, though, it can point to a more serious problem like a migraine or a particular kind of nerve pain. Depending on what’s causing the headache, the ways to treat it can vary. This article will look at ten possible causes of this type of headache and ways to heal them.

What Causes a Headache on the Left Side of the Head?

Headache on the Left Side of Head

1. Migraines

Migraines are a common reason for headaches that occur on just one side of the head. If you have this kind of headache, it might feel like a throbbing pain.

How to Heal

You can often ease migraine pain with over-the-counter pain relievers. Resting in a dark room might also help. If migraines are a frequent problem, your doctor can prescribe specific medications to prevent or treat them.

2. Tension Headaches

Tension headaches usually cause a dull, aching sensation. Stress is the usual culprit here. Taking care of stress is a big part of getting rid of tension headaches. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga can be helpful. Medications like ibuprofen might also ease the pain.

3. Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches can potentially cause severe pain on one side of the head. These headaches often occur in cycles.

How to Heal

Over-the-counter pain medications might not be enough for cluster headaches. According to NHS, specific prescriptions such as sumatriptan injections or zolmitriptan nasal spray can be useful. Inhaling pure oxygen through a mask is another method used to treat this type of headache.

4. Sinus Headaches

A sinus headache happens when the sinuses become inflamed, often due to infection. It can cause a left-side headache. It is usually a pain between and behind your eyes, cheek, or upper teeth accompanied by other symptoms like nasal congestion and a runny nose.

How to Heal

Dealing with the underlying sinus issue is crucial here. Nasal decongestants or antibiotics, if there’s an infection, might be necessary.

5. Nerve Pain

Sometimes, nerve pain, such as trigeminal neuralgia, can cause a headache on one side. If you suspect nerve pain, seeing a healthcare provider is essential. Medications specifically designed to treat nerve pain may be prescribed.

6. Eye Strain

Too much time in front of screens can cause eye strain, potentially leading to headaches on one side. Reducing screen time and taking frequent breaks can be helpful. Making sure your glasses or contacts prescription is up-to-date can also make a difference.

7. Tooth Infection

An infection in a tooth on the left side may cause referred pain to the left side of your head. A visit to the dentist is essential if you suspect a tooth infection. They may prescribe antibiotics and possibly perform a root canal or other dental procedures to clear the infection.

8. Injuries

Head injuries can sometimes lead to headaches on one side. For minor injuries, rest and over-the-counter pain relievers may be enough. If the pain persists or if the injury is more severe, you should see a doctor for a proper assessment and treatment.

9. Ear Infection

An infection in the left ear might cause a headache on the same side. Ear infections usually require medical treatment. Antibiotics and pain relievers prescribed by a healthcare provider can often resolve the infection and relieve the headache.

10. Brain tumors

Though rare, a tumor on the left side of the brain could cause a headache in that region. Other symptoms may include seizures, nausea, vomiting, difficulty thinking, vision, or speech problems.

How to Heal

If a tumor is suspected, immediate medical attention is required. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. The specific treatment will depend on the type and location of the tumor.

11. Temporal Arteritis

Temporal arteritis is an inflammation of the arteries in the temples. This can particularly cause a headache on the left side of the head if the left temporal artery is affected. This condition requires medical diagnosis and treatment. Corticosteroids are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation.

Further Reading: Headaches After Washing Your Hair? Here’s What You Need to Know

Continue Reading