Primary stabbing headaches are caused by overactivity or problems with pain-sensitive structures in the head. They may occur without an identifiable cause, or they could develop from an underlying disease.

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.

Trigeminal neuralgia (tic douloureux) is a disorder of a nerve at the side of the head, called the trigeminal nerve. This condition causes intense, stabbing or electric shock-like pain in the lips, eyes, nose, scalp, forehead and jaw. Although trigeminal neuralgia is not fatal, it is extremely painful.

One type of headache called temporal arteritis needs medical attention. Throbbing pain in the temples, especially on just one side of your head, is typically a symptom of migraine pain.

Pressure in temples is fairly common and often brought on by stress or tense muscles in the jaw, head, or neck. OTC pain relievers, improving your posture, and managing your stress may be all you need. See your doctor if you’re concerned or have other symptoms.

Pre-strokes or mini strokes are the common terms used to describe a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Unlike a full blown stroke, a TIA only lasts a few minutes and does not cause permanent damage. Nevertheless it is a warning sign that a possible stroke may be coming in the future.

Here are some simple recommendations:

1. Exercise most days of the week. Exercise is the most effective way to lower your blood pressure.
2. Consume a low-sodium diet. Too much sodium (or salt) causes blood pressure to rise.
3. Limit alcohol intake to no more than 1 to 2 drinks per day.
4. Make stress reduction a priority.