Why do I get a sharp pain in my head when I swallow?

Attacks of intense, electric shock-like pain can occur without warning or can be triggered by swallowing. Although the exact cause is not known, a blood vessel is often found compressing the nerve inside the skull. It can also occur in people with throat or neck cancer.

What does it mean when the side of your head is hurting?

There are over 300 types of headache, about 90 percent of which have no known cause. However, a migraine or a cluster headache are the most likely causes of a headache on the right side of the head. Tension headaches may also cause pain on one side in some people.

Is it normal for only one side of your head to hurt?

If you’re getting headaches only on one side of your head you shouldn’t worry, but you should make an appointment with your doctor. One-sided headaches can mean different things. But they often point to a group of disorders that will need a thorough exam to provide treatment.

Why does my head hurt when I chew or swallow?

When the muscles in your jaw tense up — like when you grind your teeth — the pain can spread to other TMJ muscles alongside your cheeks and on the sides and top of your head, causing a headache. A TMJ headache might also result from TMJ issues related to osteoarthritis, joint hypermobility, or osteoporosis.

Can sinusitis cause painful swallowing?

With a sinus infection, constantly trying to clear your throat of drainage can cause irritation and painful swallowing until the infection clears.

What is TMJ headache?

TMJ headache or Temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ) headache is defined as head pain resulting from the pain that is first caused by tensing up of the jaw muscles then spreading to the TMJ muscles along the side of your cheeks and then reaching to the top of your head, ultimately causing a TMJ headache.

How do you cure a side headache?

Headache treatment options Take a nap, and make sure you’re getting plenty of rest at night. Eat something if your blood sugar is low. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Use a massage tool to help relieve tension in your neck and shoulders.

Where is TMJ headache located?

TMJ headache cause aches in your cheeks, ears, jaw, and other parts of your face, along with the top of your head. The TMJ headache may cause severe pain and discomfort in your neck and shoulders as well.

What does it mean when it hurts to swallow on one side?

Many things can cause a sore throat on one side, even if you don’t have tonsils. These include post-nasal drip, canker sores, tooth infections, and other conditions. You might only have throat pain, or you might have additional symptoms, such as an earache.