Published on: 7/4/2025
What could a throbbing headache on the right side of my head indicate?
One possible reason for a throbbing headache on one side of the head (like on the right side) could be a migraine. Migraines sometimes occur with other symptoms like seeing flashes of light or feeling nauseous. Keep in mind that other health conditions can also cause throbbing headaches. You should see a healthcare provider if the headache is severe, frequent, worsening, or occurs with other symptoms. Reasons to seek emergency medical care include experiencing a sudden severe headache, sudden weakness in the arms or legs, sudden difficulty speaking, and/or concurrent symptoms like fever, stiff neck, or vomiting.
Explanation
One possible reason for a throbbing headache on one side of your head (like the right side of your head) might be a migraine. Migraines are a common type of headache that often cause a strong, pulsing or throbbing pain on one side or both sides of the head. Bright light or loud noises can make migraine headaches feel worse. Nausea or vomiting can also happen during migraine headaches. Some (but not all) people with migraines may experience a warning sign called an 'aura,' which can include visual changes (like flashes of light or shadows) before the headache starts.
Other health conditions besides migraines can cause a throbbing headache on one side of your head. Consulting a healthcare provider is the best way to determine why you are experiencing these symptoms and what the appropriate treatment is. It is especially important to seek urgent medical care if the headache is severe, worsening, and/or occurs with other symptoms like sudden weakness or numbness that you haven't had before.
(References)
- Hayashi K, Suzuki A, Nakaya Y, Takaku N, Miura T, Sato M, & Kobayashi Y. (2024). Migraine With Aura Accompanied by Myoclonus: A Case .... Cureus, 39391443.
- Beckmann YY, Seçil Y, Kendir AI, & Başoğlu M. (2009). Chronic migraine: a prospective descriptive clinical study in .... Pain practice : the official journal of World Institute of Pain, 19622107.
- Indriani RV, Munir G, & Dewayani BM. (2023). A rare case of multiple supratentorial brain lesions due to .... Radiology case reports, 37691764.
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