Headache is a common condition and there is no one reason for it. It could occur due to several factors, individually or all at once. Migraine headache, stress-induced headache, cluster headache are some of the most common types of headaches, each of which can be differentiated as per their location or their distinct characterisation of pain along with its frequency. However, there is another type of headache that can occur after workout. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Keni Ravish Rajiv, Consultant Neurologist and Epileptologist, Aster RV Hospital, explains what it is.
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Common Causes Of Headache
Headaches can be classified into two types: Primary and Secondary headaches. Primary headaches occur when the pain is the headache itself and not due to any underlying disease or condition. It arises in the head and can be disabling. Migraine is the most common type of primary headache. It often begins at puberty and mostly affects those aged between 35 and 45 years, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). It is more common in women, usually by a factor of about 2:1, because of hormonal influences.
Secondary headaches are caused by an underlying problem that affects pain-sensitive areas in the neck and head. Some of the common causes include acute sinusitis, brain aneurysm, brain tumour, blood clot within the brain and more.
Know About Exertional Headache If You Experience Headache Post-Workout
Certain headaches occur straight after workout or physical activity. This type of headache is called exertional headache. “An exertional headache is a type of headache that is triggered by some type of physical activity. This can be anything from a coughing fit to a strenuous workout,” said Dr Rajiv, adding that one might feel it come on during or after the workout.
Other activities that can trigger an exertion headache include:
- Having sexual intercourse
- Running or doing aerobics
- Straining to go to the bathroom
- Weightlifting
According to the doctor, people often describe exertional headaches as a pulsating pain on both sides of the head. The pain can last anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of days,” he added.
In addition, this type of headache only happens with exercise. People are also more likely to develop primary exercise headaches when working out in warm weather or at high altitudes, said Dr Rajiv.
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Symptoms Of Exercise-Induced Headache
Symptoms of an exercise-induced headache often include:
- Neck pain
- Pain on one or both sides of the head
- Pulsating or throbbing pain, sometimes also referred to as “the worst headache"
- The headaches can also feel like migraines. Symptoms include:
- Blind spots
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
Preventive Measures
There is no sure-shot way to prevent exertional headache. However, what you can do is avoid activities that trigger them. Alternatively, you can also adopt certain practices to minimise your risk. These include:
- Do not exercise in extreme temperatures, too hot or too cold
- Avoid working out in altitudes you’re not used to
- Stay hydrated
- Rest well and have a complete eight hours of sleep.
- Mix up your exercise routine
- Don't forget to Warm up and cool down
- Eat a healthy diet, and avoid processed foods
Conclusion
Headaches can occur at any given point of time and sometimes the reasons are not immediately known. But if it occurs straight after you indulged in an activity, it could be an exertional headache. Visit a healthcare professional if it happens time and again.