What is a bilateral migraine and how is it treated?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Bilateral migraine is a type of headache that causes moderate to severe throbbing pain on both sides of the head. Unlike typical migraines that affect one side, bilateral migraines impact the entire head and may be accompanied by additional symptoms such as visual disturbances, light sensitivity, nausea, or eye pain. Treatment options vary based on severity and can include over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, specialized procedures like a stellate ganglion block, which targets nerves in the neck to relieve chronic pain.

Because bilateral migraines can mimic other conditions and vary widely in cause and severity, it's important to understand your specific symptoms before deciding on next steps. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights into what may be causing your headaches and how to address them effectively.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Bilateral migraines are headaches that affect both sides of the head. They can sometimes be associated with unusual symptoms, such as changes in the eyes. For example, one reference mentions a condition called bilateral episodic mydriasis, where the pupils in the eyes become larger and this is related to migraines.

Another reference discusses a treatment called a bilateral stellate ganglion block. This is a procedure that involves injecting medication near a group of nerves in the neck to help relieve migraine symptoms. In one case, this treatment was used successfully to help a person with migraines.

There is also a type of migraine called ophthalmoplegic migraine, which can involve both eyes. This means the muscles around the eyes might not work properly during the headache. These different types of migraines show that they can be complex and might need special treatments depending on the symptoms.

If you're experiencing headaches or migraine symptoms, you can check your symptoms with Ubie's free AI-powered tool and talk to a healthcare provider for advice and treatment options.

(References)

van Engelen BG, Renier WO, Gabreëls FJ, & Cruysberg HR. (1991). Bilateral episodic mydriasis as a migraine equivalent in .... Headache, 1889977.
Moon S, Lee J, & Jeon Y. (2020). Bilateral stellate ganglion block for migraine: A case report. Medicine, 32358380.
Hutchinson DO, & Donaldson IM. (1989). Ophthalmoplegic migraine with bilateral involvement. Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry, 2746282.

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