What Causes Throbbing Pain In The Left Side Of The Head?

Posted on Sat, 25 Feb 2017

Question: Last night I experienced a headache described as throbbing, stabbing, shock-like or jabbing pain on the left side of my head. I am 52 and really don't remember having this before. It has not really occurred but maybe once or twice today and was not as bad.Should I be concerned and see a doctor?

So I want to completely understand, you said the second possibility - stabbing that only lasted a few seconds - goes away in my case and returns later as the same is not a dangerous condition, correct? We are scheduled to travel tomorrow and I need to be sure I do not need to seek medical attention here. If so where or whom should I see get treatment?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Ice pick headaches is not a dangerous condition.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back.

The second possibility, or ice pick headaches, is not a dangerous condition.

To exclude subarachnoidal hemorrhage, you can consult with a Neurologist (a clinical examination followed by a CT-scan brain will be helpful in diagnosis).

Hope this helps.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee