Headaches Caused By Exertion 



Do you feel a terrible headache coming on every time you exercise, move or rush around? These headaches are usually harmless and are not really a cause for concern. There are rare instances, though, when headaches that occur right after physical exertion have serious underlying medical reasons.

Types of Exertional Headaches

There are several types of headaches related to physical exertion: effort migraines, exertional headaches,  benign coital headaches and cervicogenic headaches.

* Effort Migraines

People who frequently exercise and participate in sports activities are usually the ones who experience effort migraines. In addition, people who get this type of migraine have had migraines before. More often than not, they know when an effort migraine is coming on, as they can recognize symptoms such as flashing lights.

An increase in body temperature right after intense activity or exercise is believed to be what triggers an effort migraine. When the body temperature is high, the blood vessels surround the brain become dilated. When this happens, the blood vessels put pressure on the nerves, resulting to a headache. Effort migraines can be treated using the usual migraine medications.

* Exertional Headaches

One out of 100 people experience exertional headaches. This type of headache is triggered by exercising, as it causes the blood pressure to rise and puts pressure on the blood vessels surrounding the brain. If you are exercising and you suddenly feel an intense throbbing pain at the back of your head, you are likely experiencing exertional headaches. Over-the-counter painkillers are able to control and relieve exertional headaches.

* Benign Coital Headaches

If you experience headaches right after sex, you are likely having benign coital headaches. There are also cases when intense or severe headaches come during sex. This type of headache typically goes undiagnosed because of its nature. However, benign coital headache is serious and must be given immediate medical attention.

* Cervicogenic Headache

Another type of headache linked to exercise is cervicogenic headache. This type of headache is believed to be caused by cervical spine disorders and are usually accompanied by symptoms like blurred vision. Cervicogenic headaches can be prevented by focusing treatment on neck problems.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

While headaches that occur after physical exertion like exercising are usually harmless, there are rare cases when the headaches are a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. If you exhibit any of the following symptoms, it is best to consult with your doctor:

* Onset of sudden headache for no apparent reason
* A headache that worsens after several days
* Head injury
* A different type of headache
* A headache that exhibits unfamiliar symptoms
* Headache pain on one side
* A headache after waking up in the morning or in the middle of the night
* Stiff neck
* Tingling or numbness in the body