[37M] Experiencing sharp, unilateral headache

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible causes for your headache include:

• Tension Headache: This is the most common type of headache and it often feels like a tight band around your forehead or at the back of your head. It's usually caused by stress, lack of sleep, or poor posture.

  • Treatment typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil), as well as rest and relaxation techniques.

• Migraine: This is a type of headache characterized by severe pain on one side of the head, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. However, you did not report these additional symptoms.

  • Treatment typically involves medication to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks, as well as lifestyle changes to avoid triggers.

• Cluster Headache: This is a rare type of headache that occurs in clusters or cycles. It's characterized by severe pain on one side of the head, often around the eye. The pain usually comes on suddenly and can last for several hours.

  • Treatment typically involves medication to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.

• Temporal Arteritis: This is an inflammation of the arteries in the temples. It's more common in people over 50 and can cause a severe headache, scalp tenderness, and jaw pain. However, your age and lack of other symptoms make this less likely.

  • Treatment typically involves corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

What you can do

You should consult a healthcare professional who can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

1. Continue taking over-the-counter pain relievers as directed on the packaging. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
2. Rest and relax. Try to reduce stress and get plenty of sleep.
3. Apply a warm or cold compress to your forehead or the back of your neck.
4. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco, which can worsen headaches.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your headache is severe and sudden (like a "thunderclap")
• You have a fever, stiff neck, or confusion along with your headache
• You have a history of cancer and develop a new headache
• Your headache is accompanied by a seizure, double vision, weakness, or trouble speaking
• Your headache gets worse over days and changes with position or during certain times of day

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.