Left-Sided Head Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Left-sided headache?

Today, I experienced sudden intermittent sharp pain in my left hemisphere.
I'm not sure if it's related to the time I got bumped at the children's festival, as I felt dizzy for a moment after the impact, but it improved within a few seconds.
I think there was some swelling at that time.
I applied ice and ointment when I got home, but I haven't paid much attention to it since then.
I would like to know if this could be related to that incident.
How should I handle this? Should I see a doctor or get an X-ray?

Xiao Xin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/13

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, generally speaking, if there is no loss of consciousness, the use of anticoagulants, or obvious localized hematomas, head injuries are mostly mild.
However, if the following conditions occur, delayed bleeding should be considered, and you should seek emergency care: 1.
Deterioration of vision, seeing double (diplopia), or unequal pupil size.
2.
Confusion or abnormal behavior.
3.
Numbness or inability to move limbs.
As for the intermittent sharp pain in your left brain that you mentioned, a more common cause is cervical myofascial pain, where the neck muscles often have tender points, and sometimes pulling the scalp can also cause pain.
There may be a feeling of muscle stiffness, and painful nodules can sometimes be palpated.
However, your age also falls into the common demographic for migraines, so it is recommended that you visit a neurology clinic for examination and follow-up.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Taoyuan Hospital, Neurology Department, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/10/13

More Info

Understanding left-sided head pain can be complex, as it may stem from various causes, including previous injuries, muscle tension, or even underlying medical conditions. Based on your description, it seems that your left-sided head pain may be related to a past incident where you experienced a blow to the head, which could have resulted in a concussion or other forms of head trauma.
When you mentioned that you experienced dizziness immediately after the incident, it raises a flag for potential concussion symptoms. Concussions can lead to a range of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, confusion, and sometimes even prolonged headaches that can manifest days or weeks after the initial injury. The fact that you applied ice and used topical medication suggests you were proactive in managing the injury, which is good. However, if the pain has persisted or worsened, it is essential to take it seriously.

In terms of the pain you are currently experiencing, there are several potential explanations:
1. Tension Headaches: These are often caused by stress, muscle tension, or poor posture. If you have been under stress or have been sitting in a position that strains your neck and shoulders, this could lead to tension headaches, which may be felt on one side of the head.

2. Migraine: Migraines can also present as unilateral head pain and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light, or visual disturbances. If your pain is throbbing and severe, it could be a migraine.

3. Post-Traumatic Headaches: After a head injury, some individuals may experience headaches that can last for weeks or even months. These headaches can vary in intensity and may be triggered by physical activity, stress, or changes in sleep patterns.

4. Cervicogenic Headaches: These headaches originate from issues in the cervical spine (neck) and can cause pain that radiates to one side of the head. If you have any neck stiffness or discomfort, this could be a contributing factor.

Given your history of head trauma and the current symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist, can conduct a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies such as a CT scan or MRI to rule out any serious conditions like bleeding or structural issues in the brain.
Additionally, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Severe or worsening headache
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Vision changes
- Weakness or numbness in any part of your body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
In the meantime, consider keeping a headache diary to track the frequency, duration, and intensity of your headaches, as well as any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

In summary, while your left-sided head pain may be related to your previous injury, it is crucial to consult with a medical professional to ensure that there are no serious underlying issues. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and help you manage your symptoms effectively.

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