Having a headache on the left side and not knowing why can be concerning. However, causes can be plenty and may not be of any concern. The aim of this article is to help you understand the types of headaches that cause pain on the left side so that you can have an idea of what treatment is best for you and when it’s necessary to call our home GP for migraine in Costa del Sol.
Is it serious?
It is important to know the difference between the symptoms of a primary headache and a more serious condition.
Types of primary headache
Primary headaches where the pain appears on the left side are the following:
- tension headaches
- migraines
- cluster headaches
Our home GP for migraine in Costa del Sol can provide the right medication to treat your headache.
Underlying conditions
Sometimes if you experience pain on the left side of your head it may be due to an underlying condition instead of a primary headache, which in some occasions can be serious.
Serious causes of pain on the left side of the head include:
- inflammatory diseases
- injuries
- blood vessel issues
Sometimes the underlying condition isn’t that serious and may be due to over-reliance on painkillers or sinusitis.
When to call our home GP for migraine in Costa del Sol
If you are experiencing pain on the left side together with symptoms that relate to inflammatory diseases and blood vessel issues, or suspect your pain is due to an injury, then you should call our home GP for migraine in Costa del Sol straight away.
Symptoms of serious underlying conditions include sweats, blurred vision and fever.
Contact us too if you experience:
- a significant change in the pattern of your headaches
- a notably severe headache
- headaches that rapidly get worse
- headaches that make daily life unmanageable
- changes to your personality or mental function
- headaches that occur after a blow to the head
Treatment and prevention
Pain-relieving medication treats most headaches are treated with, but our home GP for migraine in Costa del Sol may prescribe stronger painkillers or muscle relaxants if you have a more severe tension headache or migraine, or oxygen inhalation treatment if you experience cluster headaches.
For primary headaches, the following lifestyle changes can help manage them:
- Relaxation techniques such as yoga can help relax your mind and body, helping reduce muscle tension, which will reduce the chances of you developing tension headaches and migraines triggered by stress.
- Avoiding food triggers like alcohol, caffeine or cheese.
If an underlying condition is causing your headache, then our home GP for migraine in Costa del Sol can advise on the best course of treatment.