When Exercise Causes Headaches

Headaches from Exercising?

Exercise is usually recommended for good health as it decreases the risks of chronic degenerative diseases, increases cardiovascular health, improves muscle tone, and has several other benefits. However, there are certain people who have moderate to high risks for exercise headaches, which happen during or after strenuous exercise.

Not all types of exercises can lead to exercise headaches just as not everybody who exercises will have these health complaints. The most common activities closely associated with the ailment include rowing, running, weightlifting and tennis. When you observe that your head starts to pound during or after engaging in these activities, then you should see your Healthpointe doctor for proper diagnosis.

Your doctor will conduct a physical examination and take into account your medical history to determine the type of exercise headache yours fall into. First, primary exercise headaches are characterized by their:

• Harmless nature;
• Occurrence during or after sustained and strenuous exercise;
• Throbbing pain;
• Presence in both sides of the head;
• Non-connection to underlying health conditions;
• Prevention via medication

The duration of primary headaches vary from 5 minutes to 48 hours depending on several factors.

Second, secondary exercise headaches are cause for concern because these are likely caused by an underlying health issue, which can be serious in nature. Examples include a tumor or bleeding in the brain or coronary artery disease, among other possible causes. Emergency medical attention may be required especially when the following symptoms are experienced during or after exercise:

• Vomiting
• Double vision
• Neck rigidity
• Loss of consciousness

The duration of secondary exercise headaches is usually longer than their primary counterparts. These can last anywhere from a day, at least, to several days or longer.

When in doubt about the cause of your headache after exercising, especially when it abruptly begins or when it becomes chronic, your best course of action is to see your doctor. Your doctor will likely recommend preventive tips, such as exercising in cooler environments, avoiding exercises at high altitudes, and performing warm-ups, as well as treatments including medications.

Don’t stop exercising just because you get headaches after doing so. Instead, consult with your doctor first about getting a definitive diagnosis, treating the underlying causes, and adopting preventive measures.

Healthpointe’s doctors and surgeons are available for consultations on all headache and sport-related injuries; for more information please call (888) 824-5580 or visit www.Healthpointe.net

About Healthpointe:

Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Long Beach, which is conveniently located near Signal Hill, Carson, Seal Beach, Lakewood, Bellflower, Compton, Hawaiian Gardens, and Los Alamitos. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit www.Healthpointe.net