Exercise Headaches: Causes and Symptoms

Exercise headaches are caused by the sudden increase in blood pressure that occurs during physical activity. This increase in pressure can cause blood vessels in the head to expand, leading to the pain associated with an exercise headache.

Symptoms of an exercise headache can include throbbing pain on both sides of the head, pressure in the head and neck, and sensitivity to light and sound. These symptoms can last from a few minutes to several hours and can be worsened by physical activity or bending over.

Treatment Options

The treatment options for exertion headaches depend on the severity of the symptoms. For mild headaches, a course of acupuncture of at least six treatment sessions has shown to be a valuable treatment for headaches

For more severe headaches, prescription medication may be necessary.

In addition to medication, lifestyle changes such as staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous physical activity, and maintaining a healthy diet can help prevent exertion headaches from occurring.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While exercise headaches are typically not serious, there are some cases where medical attention may be necessary. If you experience severe or persistent headaches, or if your headaches are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or confusion, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

Conclusion

Exertion headaches can be a painful and frustrating condition, but there are treatment options available. By taking steps to prevent these headaches and seeking medical attention when necessary, individuals can manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Reference:

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3. Trotta, K. and Hyde, J., 2017. Exercise-induced headaches: prevention, management, and treatment. US Pharm, 42(1), pp.33–36.
4. Upadhyaya, P., Nandyala, A. and Ailani, J., 2020. Primary exercise headache. Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports, 20, pp.1–4.