Exercise headaches, also known as exertion headaches, can occur during periods of heavy physical or mental exertion. These headaches are rare but can happen to anyone. It is believed that exertion headaches are related to the body’s increased demand for blood during physical activity. Some research suggests that the headaches may be caused by blood vessels inside the skull becoming dilated during strenuous activity. Exertion headaches are most likely to occur during activities such as running, weightlifting, swimming, rowing, racket sports, cycling, hiking, or climbing. People over 40 and those with a history of migraines may be at a higher risk of developing exertion headaches.
While exertion headaches are usually not dangerous and can resolve on their own, it is important to speak to a doctor about these symptoms. Some headaches may be caused by an underlying health condition, such as an issue with the blood vessels in the brain. These are called secondary headaches, and they could potentially pose a risk to health. If headaches are regular, increasing in severity, or happening randomly, it is important to consult a doctor to rule out a more serious condition. There are steps that can be taken to minimize the risk of developing exertion headaches, such as warming up properly, staying hydrated, managing intensity, cooling down, monitoring the environment, and exercising regularly.
Preventing exertion headaches involves understanding and listening to your body. It is important to gradually increase the intensity of workouts, rather than pushing too hard too fast. Taking time to cool down after exercising helps the body ease back to its resting state. Keeping well-hydrated before and during exercise is essential, as dehydration can be a contributing factor to headaches. Monitoring the environment, especially extreme heat or cold, during outdoor activities can also help prevent exertion headaches. In the case of experiencing exertion headaches, over-the-counter painkillers or migraine relief medication may be prescribed by a doctor, especially if a person has been diagnosed with migraines.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground. If there are health problems causing concern, experts can be asked for advice and stories may be featured on Newsweek. Exertion headaches, while not usually dangerous, can be a nuisance during exercise. Proper warmups, hydration, intensity management, cooling down, environmental monitoring, and regular exercise can help minimize the risk of developing exertion headaches. It is essential to consult a doctor if experiencing regular, severe, or random headaches to rule out any underlying health conditions that may be causing the symptoms. By taking preventative measures and listening to the body, individuals can continue to enjoy the benefits of exercise without the discomfort of exertion headaches.
