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Overview
Migraines last 4 to 72 hours.
Triggers include sleep, stress, and foods.
When to get medical care
Call 911Sudden, severe 'worst headache of your life,' or with weakness or trouble speaking.
Get care todayNew severe headache after 50.
See a doctor soonFrequent headaches.
Causes
Caused by migraine.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause one-sided throbbing headache. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- MigraineSee a doctor if it doesn't get better
A headache that often throbs on one side and may come with nausea or light sensitivity.
What you can do at home
- Rest in a dark room.
- Cold pack.
Medicines
Pain relievers and triptans.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by history.
Questions you may be asked
- Pattern
The exam
A nerve exam.
Tests
- Usually none
Prevention
Avoid triggers.
- Regular sleep
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.