We’ve all experienced that nagging pain at our temples that can turn a good day into a rough one. Temple headaches are common and can be caused by anything from stress to eye strain or even more serious issues. Knowing what triggers these headaches and how to treat them can help you return to feeling your best.
Causes of temple headache
Temple headaches can be caused by many things. Identifying the root cause for you is key for finding the proper treatment. Here are some common causes:
- Tension headaches. These are the most common types of headaches, often caused by stress, anxiety or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. They can create tight, band-like pressure around your temples.
- Migraines. Migraines can cause severe, throbbing pain, often on one side of your head, including the temples. They may be accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity and other symptoms.
- Sinus issues. Sinus infections or allergies can lead to sinus headaches, which can cause pain and pressure in the temples and around the forehead.
- Eye strain. Prolonged screen time or uncorrected vision problems can lead to eye strain, resulting in headaches centered around the temples.
- Cluster headaches. Although less common, these headaches can cause intense pain around one eye and temple, often occurring in cyclical patterns or clusters.
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Problems with the jaw joint can cause pain that radiates to the temples and head.
Treatment options
The key to finding relief is figuring out what’s causing them and choosing the right way to treat them. Here are some effective remedies:
Home remedies:
- Rest and relaxation. Taking a break and resting in a quiet, dark room can help alleviate tension, headaches and migraines.
- Hydration. You should make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day as dehydration can contribute to headaches.
- Cold or warm compress. Applying a cold pack or warm towel to your temples can reduce pain and tension.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers. Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can relieve headache pain.
- Massage and stretching. Gently massaging your temples and performing neck and shoulder stretches can reduce muscle tension.
Lifestyle changes:
- Regular exercise. Physical activity can help reduce stress and prevent tension headaches.
- Healthy diet. Eating regular, balanced meals and avoiding trigger foods (like caffeine and processed foods) can prevent migraines and other headaches. For more information on eating healthy, read our other blogs, Finding Your Balance with the Mediterranean Diet, How the DASH Diet Can Help Lower Your High Blood Pressure, and Healthy Meal Planning: Essential Tips for Achieving Your Wellness Goals.
- Good sleep hygiene. Make sure to get enough restful sleep each night to help prevent headaches related to sleep deprivation.
- Limit screen time. Take regular breaks from screens, including your phone, to reduce eye strain.
When to see your doctor or APP
If home remedies aren’t working, your headaches are severe, or they are occurring frequently, it is important to schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP). They will assess your symptoms, medical history and potential triggers to diagnose the type of headache you’re experiencing. From there, they will create a tailored treatment plan based on your diagnosis that may include prescription medications, lifestyle recommendations or specialist referrals if needed.
It is important to seek immediate medical care if you experience a sudden, severe headache. This is especially true if it's accompanied by confusion, difficulty speaking or weakness on one side of your body as this can be a sign of stroke.
Temple headaches don’t have to take over your life. The good news? Most headaches can be managed with a few simple treatments or lifestyle tweaks. By understanding what triggers your headaches, you’ll be one step closer to preventing them before they begin. Empower yourself with the knowledge to feel your best every day.
*An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.