Why do I get a headache when lying down at night and how can I prevent it?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Nighttime headaches when lying down are often linked to conditions like high blood pressure, sleep apnea, cluster headaches, or hypnic headaches. Prevention typically involves managing blood pressure, improving sleep hygiene, and addressing underlying sleep disorders. Because these headaches can signal a range of issues—from benign to serious—identifying the likely cause is the critical first step. Rather than guessing, take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be triggering your symptoms and get clear guidance on what to do next.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

What brings you in today?

Can I treat this myself Do I need to see a doctor Where should I go for care I'm concerned about a symptom Concerned about a possible condition My symptoms are getting worse Seeking a second opinion

Not seeing your question? No worries.

Submit your own Question

Explanation

Headaches that occur when lying down at night can be related to a few different issues. One possible reason is a condition called nocturnal headache-hypertension syndrome, where high blood pressure at night is linked to headaches. Managing blood pressure through lifestyle changes or medication might help.

Another possibility is sleep-related headaches, which can occur due to sleep disorders. Improving sleep hygiene, like having a regular sleep schedule and a comfortable sleeping environment, can be beneficial.

Chronic craniofacial pain, often linked with sleep disorders, might also contribute to headaches at night. Addressing any underlying sleep issues, such as sleep apnea, with medical advice can help reduce these headaches.

To prevent these headaches:

Monitor and control blood pressure.
Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
Ensure your sleeping area is comfortable and quiet.
Take Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to help identify what might be causing your nighttime headaches, then consult a healthcare professional if headaches persist, to explore possible sleep disorders or other underlying conditions.

(References)

Cugini P, Granata M, Strano S, Ferrucci A, Ciavarella GM, Di Palma L, et al. (1992). Nocturnal headache-hypertension syndrome. Chronobiology international, 1423739.
Singh NN, & Sahota P. (2013). Sleep-related headache and its management. Current treatment options in neurology, 24132786.
Almoznino G, Benoliel R, Sharav Y, & Haviv Y. (2017). Sleep disorders and chronic craniofacial pain. Sleep medicine reviews, 27321865.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.