Right side of head throbbing

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Right-Sided Throbbing Headache: Causes and Considerations

Migraine and Associated Symptoms

One of the most common causes of a right-sided throbbing headache is a migraine. Migraines often present with unilateral throbbing pain, which can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, photophobia, and phonophobia . Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or visual auras, are also frequently reported . In some cases, migraines can be triggered by specific factors like alcohol consumption or hormonal changes.

Neurological Conditions

Several neurological conditions can manifest as right-sided throbbing headaches. Hemicrania epileptica, for instance, is characterized by a persistent unilateral headache with visual symptoms and nausea, often resembling a severe migraine. Another condition, isolated myositis of the superior oblique muscle, can cause right-sided throbbing headaches along with retro-orbital pain and diplopia.

Vascular Issues

Vascular problems, such as carotid artery aneurysms and cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT), can also lead to right-sided throbbing headaches. Carotid artery aneurysms may cause headaches due to the pulsating nature of the aneurysm and its impingement on cranial nerves. CVT, a rare but serious condition, can present with a sudden onset of a throbbing headache and requires immediate medical attention to prevent fatal complications.

Infectious Causes

Infections like neurosyphilis can present with right-sided throbbing headaches. A case study described a patient with a right frontal throbbing headache and scalp swelling due to neurosyphilis, which resolved with appropriate antibiotic treatment.

Other Considerations

Other conditions to consider include spontaneous dural carotid-cavernous fistula, which can cause a constant daily right-sided throbbing headache along with pulsatile tinnitus, and giant cell arteritis, which can present with throbbing headaches and jaw claudication.

Conclusion

Right-sided throbbing headaches can be caused by a variety of conditions ranging from migraines to serious vascular and infectious diseases. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as some of these conditions require immediate medical intervention. If you experience persistent or severe right-sided throbbing headaches, it is important to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.