Which of the following best describes the pain of a migraine headache?

The pain of a migraine headache is best described as severe and throbbing, often localized to one side of the head. This characteristic pain is typically intense and pulsating, distinguishing it from other types of headaches. Migraines can also be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound, which further supports the identification of the headache's nature.

Migraines are often unilateral, meaning they commonly affect one side of the head, although they can occasionally present bilaterally. The throbbing quality of pain is indicative of the underlying pathophysiology involved in migraines, which includes vascular changes and irritation of the trigeminal nerve system.

In contrast, other descriptions in the options do not accurately capture the typical experience of a migraine. Intermittent and mild pain suggests a less intense headache, which does not align with the experience of a migraine. A consistent and dull ache across the entire head might describe a tension-type headache rather than a migraine. Similarly, mild pain located primarily at the temples is more indicative of tension headaches or other minor headaches rather than the severe and often unilateral pain characteristic of migraines.