Exertion Headache
The Most Common Causes of an Exertion Headache
An exertion headache is painful just like other headaches but it is also unique. One of the things that make this particular type of headache so unique is that it is actually a group of headache syndromes, with each one being associated with exercise or physical activity. Typically, the exertion headache comes on very fast and intense. Although most headaches of this type of not serious, if you experience an increase of number and/or intensity, or you simply have concerns, you should talk to your doctor.
When seeing a doctor for an exertion headache, your complete medical history would be discussed, certain blood tests would be done, and the doctor may order an MRI just to make sure something serious is not going on. If the headache were just that, then standard treatments would work well. In addition to over-the-counter or prescription pain medication, these headaches usually respond well to aspirin or anti-inflammatory medication such as Rofecoxib and Indomethacin when taken prior to physical exertion.
People with a history of migraines are more susceptible to an exertion headache although it affects many people. Medical experts put exertion headaches into two categories. Primary headaches usually cause no harm since they are not connected with any underlying medical problem. However, secondary headaches are connected to an underlying issue. In most cases, a secondary exertion headache is linked to something going on in the brain, perhaps a tumor or bleeding. For this reason, a primary exertion headache is serious and requires medical intervention.
Experts estimated that one of every one hundred people have experienced an exertion headache at least once in life. Of these, approximately 50% of cases are primary. For the headaches that fall in the secondary category, MRIs can determine the exact underlying problem and in many cases, this type of exertion headache can be prevented with prescription medication. However, a secondary exertion headache is nothing to play around with and if not treated immediately, the individual could have major ramifications.
Although an exertion headache can be caused by several types of physical activity, because it can be brought on with sexual activity, some people call it the “sex headache”. In addition, with this type of headache commonly linked with strenuous exercise, it is also called an “exercise headache.” Other causes for the exertion headache include rowing, tennis, weightlifting, swimming, biking, and running.
Along with heavy fitness regimens and physical activity, an exertion headache can also be caused by everyday things. For instance, heavy vomiting associated with the flu or food poisoning, a bad case of sneezing, chronic coughing, or even straining due to constipation can all lead to a headache of this type. Again, most often, an exertion headache is nothing serious but if you start having more, having headaches more often, they increase in intensity, or you simply want to make sure nothing serious is happening with your body, your doctor would be able to make a proper diagnosis. Remember, when it comes to health, it is always better to be safe than sorry.