throbbing headache back of head left side

[headpain30s]

I've been having these throbbing pains in the back of my head on the left side only. Started about a year ago, but they are getting stronger and last longer. I'm a graphic designer, so I do work on the computer a lot. But I've been doing this for 10+ years and these type of headaches just recently started. I don't have insurance right now, freelance worker, so I'm hoping for some ideas of how to treat/diagnose the headaches non-medically. I used to get forehead headaches all the time, but haven't in a long time. These back of the head headaches have taken over. Ugh. It feels like someone hit me in the left back of my skull with a bat. Throbbing pain that doesn't go away with rest/sleep. Could it be stress headaches or optical headaches?

[Paulma2010]

I cut out all artificial sweeteners. Those were my triggers. You MUST do this. I believe that they sensitize and dilate blood vessels to the point of creating instant sensory overload be it from light or sound or movement or just touching my head against a pillow. Things significantly improved but the headaches were still a daily thing. Then I realized that my mouthwash contained a variant of saccharin(worst of all the fake sugars) in it. I stopped using it and all symptoms finally stopped.

[Jessemtz28]

I need help my left side of my head and the back of my head been hurting for the past 2 weeks I have been taking medicine for it and it goes away for like an hour and it comes back it's to the point where I feel like passing out or I feel lost I need you help please help me

[Lanndi]

You might also tmj dysfunction (jaw joint/muscle).  My physical therapist recommends ice along w/ anti-inflammatory meds.

Also, she gave me a 2 page sheet of "posture breaks" (which you could probably find online).  I have a nice chime sound every 30 minutes (also online) that reminds me to do one of the breaks.  That has helped a lot.  In fact, I really like them!

Good luck!

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? The forehead headache may have been attributed to eye issues or error of refraction. On the other hand, the occipital ( back) headaches may be associated with neurological or musculoskeletal issues especially with frequent computer use. If pain and anti-inflammatory medications are not helping, you may need to have this checked by your doctor for proper evaluation. war m compress as well as regular and frequent stretching of the muscles of the head, neck, shoulders and arms may help provide relief also. Take care and do keep us posted.