The intense pain from a migraine headache can be debilitating. Migraine pain is the result of abnormal brain activity that leads to nerve, chemical and blood vessel changes. These headaches can be triggered by several different factors including exercise. They can last for hours or days and can occur with symptoms such as nausea, visual disturbances, light sensitivity and fatigue.
Considerations
Exercise-induced headaches can be a sign of a serious health issue. MayoClinic.com divides headaches into different categories. Primary headaches, which are not usually serious, present with throbbing pain often on both sides of the head which can be prevented with medication. Secondary headaches have similar symptoms but may also include vomiting, neck stiffness, loss of consciousness and double vision. If you experience a headache related to exercise that comes on suddenly or is a new occurrence, you should seek medical attention.
Causes
Primary headaches can be caused by strain to the structures of your upper neck such as muscles, ligaments and joints. Several shoulder muscles also attach to the neck and can effect these headache causing structures. Strenuous exercise can overload this area of your spine and cause a headache. Secondary headaches can be caused by serious pathology such as tumors, bleeding in the brain and blood vessel abnormality.
Exercise Induced Migraine
Exercise-induced migraines can be related to the introduction of weightlifting exercises to an exercise program. Doing too much too quickly can shock the body and trigger a headache. Increased risk for migraines can occur when exercising in the heat or at altitude.
Prevention/Solution
To prevent exercise-induced migraines, include beginning exercise gradually, drinking enough water, building up the difficulty of the exercise over time, and watching positioning and posture when you work out. Exercises which strain the neck or place it in sustained end range positions should be avoided. Some medications may also help, but you should consult with your physician about these options.
Expert Insight
When you work out with upper body weights, consider that many of the muscles you are working have an attachment to the neck. Lifting more weight than you are ready for can cause compensated movements and structural overload.
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