Sharp one-sided headache sometimes brought on by physical strain

Recently I have been getting sharp headaches only on the front, left side of my head. They are always located in the same place, and usually the pain radiates out into my eye and temple area. Sometimes this headaches comes out of nowhere, and sometimes it happens if I strain physically. In either case, the headache does not last longer than about 20-30 minutes. Is this something I should be concerned about or is this just a normal "icepick" headache?

[emyc87]

I wanted to add that I am a 23 y/o female and I am 6 months post-partum.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? Ice pick headaches usually present with sharp stabbing headaches that last for a few seconds and are likely to occur in people with migraine or cluster headaches. If it occurs when you strain physically, this may be exertion headaches, which is a generalized head pain of short duration (several minutes) during or following physical exertion. It also occurs during passive exertion such as sneezing, coughing, or bowel movement.  This type of headache also occurs with migraine or cluster headaches. However, if it persists, you may need further evaluation to rule out organic diseases. Take care and do keep us posted.