What is a bilateral headache and how is it different from other types?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

A bilateral headache is a headache that affects both sides of the head, unlike a unilateral headache, which occurs on only one side. Common causes of bilateral headaches include tension, dehydration, sinus issues, migraines, and, less commonly, more serious underlying conditions. Because treatment depends entirely on the root cause, identifying what's driving your pain is essential. Seek medical care right away if your headache is severe, frequent, worsening, or accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, weakness, or blurry vision.

Not sure what's causing your headache? Understanding your symptoms is the first step toward relief. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights into possible causes and clear guidance on your next steps—no signup required, and it only takes a few minutes.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover likely causes of bilateral headaches Learn if headache needs care today Find out what your headache means Find OTC relief for bilateral headaches See headache doctors near you Discover medically valid home remedies Understand if headaches could signal something serious

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Explanation

A bilateral headache is a headache that affects both sides of the head. This is different from headaches that only occur on one side of the head. Headaches can be felt on both sides of the head include tension-type headaches and hypnic headaches -- you can learn more about your specific symptoms by taking a free symptom checker test to better understand what might be causing your headache.

In contrast, cluster headaches are an example of a type of headache that usually affects only one side of the head. Migraines often affect one side of the head in many adults, but it is also possible for migraines to affect both sides of the head.

If your headache is severe, frequent, worsening, and/or occurs with other symptoms (like vomiting, weakness, or blurry vision), it is important to consult a healthcare provider for a personalized medical assessment and treatment plan. Some people experience this type of headache every day, which is known as a chronic daily bilateral headache.

(References)

Solomon S, & Newman LC. (1999). Chronic daily bilateral headache responsive to indomethacin. Headache, 11279952.
Durko A, & Bogucki A. (1984). [Bilateral occurrence of symptoms of Horton's headache .... Neurologia i neurochirurgia polska, 6527727.
Hannerz J. (2000). Chronic bilateral headache responding to indomethacin. Headache, 11135030.

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