exertion headache
Exertion Headache
Have you ever been exercising and then experienced a headache? For some people physical activity can trigger and headache that can develop into a migraine (called exertion migraines.) Exercise induced headaches are not really that uncommon and in most cases are completely harmless – although uncomfortable.
What Causes an Exertion Headache
Most commonly exertion headaches develop after a long bout of exercise or after a very intense burst of physical activity. Specific activities include running, heavy lifting, rowing, swimming, tennis, etc.
Among most sufferers, this condition is most commonly seen among men in their 20’s and those with a family history of exertion headaches.
The exact reason that people experience exercise induced headaches is not known. Researchers theorize that exercise could cause the blood vessels inside the brain to swell – causing pain and irritation.
Symptoms of Exertion Headache
Headache or throbbing migraine that occurs right after prolonged or vigorous exercise.
Most people report pain on both sides of the head.
Exertion headaches can last anywhere from a few minutes to a couple days.
Remember, if you experience any sudden, unusually severe headache (or your headache is accompanied by vision problems, nausea, or a stiff neck) please get this condition examined by a doctor. While very rare, sometimes exertion headaches are symptoms of other serious conditions (such as a tumor, brain hemorrhage or aneurysm.) At this time your doctor could suggest diagnostic test such as an MRI just to make sure nothing is seriously wrong.
Preventing Exertion Headache
If you know that you have a tendency towards developing exercise induced headaches, it could be useful to know that this condition is usually made worse by hot weather, humidity, and high altitude. Some people choose to avoid activities that trigger headaches. This is a personal decision – just be aware that there treatments available should you not want to discontinue favorite activities!
The most common preventative drugs are indomethacin (anti-inflammatory) and propranolol (blood pressure medication.)
Indomethacin is a nonsteriodal anti-inflammatory drug commonly used to treat pain and inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis. Indomethacin works by reducing pain and inflammation causing hormones called prostaglandins.
Side effects of indomethacin include:
- Increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
- Gastrointestinal holes and bleeding (risk increased when alcohol is consumed.)
Propranolol is a beta-blocker, which is frequently prescribed to treat hypertension (high blood pressure.)
Both drugs are Pregnancy class C, meaning the medication could be harmful to a developing baby. Likewise, it is not considered safe to breastfeed while taking these medications as the medication can pass through into breast milk.
Depending on the frequency and predictability of your headaches as well as your daily activities, your doctor could recommend taking medication anywhere from a few hours before activity to every single day.
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