An intense throbbing headache following a set of pushups may stem from any number of causes. Hunger is the simplest explanation for a headache following any form of intense physical activity that utilizes several muscle groups such as pushups. Inadequate hydration can also trigger painful headaches. However if your headache persists after you have ingested food and water, other more serious problems may be afoot, including heat illness or migraine.
Hunger
Pushups are a demanding exercise and multiple sets burn a significant number of calories, particularly when performed with other resistance exercises and cardio. If you experience a throbbing headache after pushups, it could mean that your body needs food. Carry snacks with you when you work out so that you can eat immediately after your exercise session.
Dehydration
If the body is not properly hydrated during long bouts of intense physical activity, a throbbing headache may result. This is especially true of people that sweat excessively while performing pushups. Other symptoms typically accompany dehydration, including a dry sticky feeling inside the mouth, dizziness, lightheadedness, thirst, fatigue and dry skin. Always carry water or sports drinks with you when you work out, and hydrate yourself regularly during pushups to maintain healthy fluid levels.
Heat Illness
If you have been doing pushups in a stifling hot gym or outside during a scorching hot day, even adequate hydration may not prevent heat illness from developing. Severe headache is a common symptom of heat illness. Other more advanced symptoms include muscle cramps, nausea, disorientation, weakness and vomiting. If any of these symptoms accompany your headache, stop exercising immediately and seek medical attention.
Migraine
A throbbing sensation often characterizes migraine headaches. Migraines can be extremely debilitating and come with a host of other symptoms, including sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, vomiting, flashes of light, blurred vision, temporary loss of vision and zig-zagging lines across the vision field. If you experience any of these symptoms alongside your headache following pushups, seek medical counsel.
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