May 25, 2012
Topics A-Z Headaches Headaches with physical exertion (sudden onset)
Headaches with physical exertion (sudden onset) |
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Dear Ask The Doctor: I am a 30 year old female in reasonablely good shape. Slightly overweight but have lost 85 pounds using a personal trainer in the past 2 years. This week I have been experiencing headaches whenever I exert myself physically. Whether it be doing cardio, sexual activity (even masturbation), or anything that increases the heartrate. I have no history of high blood pressure, in fact mine is typically on the low side.I have no health insurance at the time so walking into a hospital I know nothing will be done. I've taken Advil and Tylenol alternating. I've tried laying down. It offers relief until I do something else physical. Any relief suggestions? Dear Amanda: The headaches you are experiencing may be due to exercise headaches that occur during or after sustained, strenuous exercise. Some activities like running, swimming and weightlifting cause an increased incidence in the appearance of these headaches. Usually these headaches are harmless may be relieved with medication. However if your headaches last more than a few hours, you have sudden and severe headaches, or have vomiting, nausea or vision disturbances, I would suggest that you see your doctor for further evaluation to rule out underlying problems such as intracranial bleeding, abnormality in the blood vessels, sinus or intracranial infection. A CT or MRI may help in these cases. If no underlying structural or vascular problem is causing your exercise headaches, your doctor may recommend medications to help prevent the headaches such as propranolol or indomethacin. |
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| Last Updated ( Thursday, 02 February 2012 ) |
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