After exercising, do you find yourself with a headache or even seeing spots? This could be cause for concern, whether it’s just a matter of overexerting yourself while exercising or even signs of a serious condition. If you are wondering “why do I get headaches when I workout”, then this article is for you!
What causes a headache while working out?
If you exercise at high altitudes or in hot or humid weather, this puts you at a greater risk of getting a headache while working out. If you have a family or personal history of getting migraines, this can also be the reason you are having exercise headaches.
What is an exercise headache?
An exercise headache can occur during or after a strenuous workout, such as rowing, running, swimming, tennis, or weightlifting.
There are two degrees of exercise headaches: primary, which are less serious, and secondary, which are connected to more serious issues.
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Primary headaches affect both sides of your head in many cases and are characterized as “throbbing” headaches. These headaches can last between five minutes and 48 hours.
Secondary headaches have similar symptoms as primary headaches but may also include double vision, loss of consciousness, a rigid neck, and vomiting. These headaches can last at least a day and can linger for several days or more.
What causes exercise headaches?
When considering the cause of primary exercise headaches, there isn’t an exact cause known although it is suggested that the strenuous activity dilates blood vessels inside the skull while you are exercising.
With the more serious secondary exercise headaches and symptoms, there is an underlying cause which can include the following:
