When your temple hurts to the touch, especially if it’s accompanied by a constant headache, it could be a sign of temporal arteritis. This is different from a migraine, where the pain is typically throbbing and often located on one side of the head.
Understanding Temple Pain
Temple pain can vary, so understanding the different possibilities is crucial for identifying the cause and finding relief.
Possible Causes of Temple Pain:
- Migraine: Often characterized by throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head, but typically not with tenderness to the touch.
- Temporal Arteritis: When throbbing pain becomes a constant headache, and the temple is painful to the touch, it could be a sign of temporal arteritis. This condition inflames the arteries in the temple area.
- Other Headache Types: Less commonly, other types of headaches can cause tenderness in the temples.
Identifying Temporal Arteritis
Temporal arteritis is more than just a headache. It involves inflammation of the arteries, which can lead to other symptoms besides temple pain.
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
- Constant headache, not just throbbing pain
- Pain when touching the temple area
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Changes in vision
What to Do?
If you experience pain in your temple, especially when touched, and it's accompanied by a constant headache, you should seek medical advice. Here's what to keep in mind:
- Consult a Doctor: Get a professional diagnosis for your symptoms.
- Document Your Symptoms: Track when the pain occurs, what it feels like (throbbing or constant), and if there are any other symptoms.
- Early Diagnosis is Key: Timely diagnosis can be crucial for managing conditions like temporal arteritis.
| Symptom | Migraine | Temporal Arteritis |
|---|---|---|
| Pain Type | Throbbing | Constant |
| Location | Often one side of the head | Temple(s) |
| Tenderness to Touch | Rarely | Often |
| Additional Symptoms | Possible nausea, visual aura | Fatigue, fever, vision changes |
Remember, while temple pain can be related to migraines, pain when you touch the temple, particularly with a constant headache, may point towards temporal arteritis, according to the information given. Prompt medical attention is advisable for proper evaluation and management.
