Migraine on one side of the head

Pain may stay around one temple, behind one eye, or across one side of the scalp, and it can worsen with ordinary activity. The side can change between attacks, and some migraine episodes affect both sides. Dizziness, facial pain or pressure, vertigo, and vomiting may accompany the headache. One-sided pain alone cannot identify the cause, because other headache disorders can feel similar.

Move to a calm, dark space and reduce noise or strong smells. Sip fluids and try a small snack if you can tolerate it. Use the treatment recommended for you early in the attack and follow its directions. A diary showing the painful side, duration, sleep, meals, stress, and associated symptoms can help a clinician confirm the pattern and choose prevention when attacks disrupt daily life.

Get emergency help for a sudden explosive headache, new trouble speaking, weakness, numbness, confusion, fainting, seizure, fever with a stiff neck, or headache after an injury. Seek prompt review for a first severe headache, a persistent change in pattern, new visual or neurological symptoms, or repeated vomiting. Do not rely on the location of pain to decide that a new headache is harmless.

Does my pattern fit migraine or another headache type? What symptoms should I track? Which treatment should I use at the first sign? When should I discuss prevention or specialist review?