What Causes a Throbbing Pain in Your Temple?

Throbbing temple pain typically results from tension headaches, migraines, or temporal arteritis. Tension headaches affect up to 78% of adults and cause bilateral temple pressure from muscle contractions due to stress, poor posture, or eye strain. Migraines create unilateral throbbing pain lasting 4-72 hours, often accompanied by nausea and light sensitivity. Temporal arteritis, though rare, causes severe temple pain in adults over 50 and requires immediate medical attention. Other causes include sinus infections, TMJ disorders, and high blood pressure. Sharp, sudden onset pain or fever warrant prompt evaluation to rule out serious conditions.