Exercise Headache - Caused by Physical Exertion
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Defined Tag: Exercise Headache.

Headaches Caused by Physical Exertion

An awful headache associated with strenuous physical activities like exercising or merely rushing around could be caused by several reasons but most of them are harmless. Thus, headache type is referred to as "benign," which underscores the fact that it is not really serious, but only annoying.  Sometimes, headaches after exertion are due to more severe reasons in which case, you must see your doctor for proper diagnosis and necessary treatment.

Effort Migraines

Effort migraines are headaches precipitated by prolonged exertion such as in exercise routine or sports.  Individuals who experience this variant of headache are already predisposed to migraine.  Hence, they would be familiar with the aura or warning signs before the headache even starts. The headache continues even when the activity is discontinued, and could last for four to six hours.

The theory behind effort migraines lies on the increase in body temperature after engaging in intense exertion. With a high body temperature, the blood vessels in the brain may dilate and press on the surrounding nerves and bring on the headache.

In case of effort migraine, you can seek relief by taking the usual medications prescribed for migraine, especially those formulated for preventive action. Also, be watchful against overheating so you can avoid developing a headache. It can also be helpful if you take a dose of ibuprofen or any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication prior to engaging in any strenuous physical exercise.

Exertional Headaches

An exertional headache has a sudden and generally severe onset and is characterized by intense throbbing pain located at the back of the head.  During vigorous physical activity, the muscles of the head, neck and scalp require more blood to circulate.  In response, the blood pressure increases and the swollen blood vessels can result into your headache. Exertional headaches usually last for about six hours with the pain kept in the background. Exertional headache is said to affect one in 100 people.  You can control exertional headaches with painkillers that can be bought over-the-counter.

Benign Coital Headaches

Also known as sexual headache, benign coital headache is an uncommon type of exertional headache that occurs while having or after intercourse. Due to its nature, individuals who experience benign coital headaches are reluctant to consult their doctors.

Most sexual headaches are benign.  On very rare occasions, however, the pain could be severe and intense which might be indicative of a more serious condition.  Hence, it is important to talk to a doctor in order to rule out a potential brain aneurysm or tumor.

Cervicogenic Headache

Cervicogenic headaches are headaches caused by cervical spine disorders. Cervicogenic headache is linked to exercise and can be traced to muscles, joints or nerves usually at the neck area. The symptoms may include blurred vision and acute flare-ups of headache pain emanating from the neck. Other than headache medications, chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture and massage are all excellent therapeutic options for headache type.

When Should You See a Doctor

Other than being unpleasant, headaches associated with exercise, sex or physical exertion could also be indicative of a more serious medical condition although such is a rare occurrence. If you experience the symptoms below, consult your doctor soon:

* When your headache starts all of a sudden and you cannot trace where it came from.

* If your headache seems to get worse over the course of a few days.

* If you had any recent injury to the head.

* If the headache you are experiencing is not like anything you had before.

* If the symptoms of your headache do not seem familiar.

* When you feel constant pain on only one side of your head.

* When you wake up with pain either during the night or in the morning.

* If you have a stiff neck.

* If there is any numbness or tingling sensation in any part of your body.

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