Popping in the Head During Exercise

The anatomy in the head and neck is complex. Between the collection of bones, joints and blood vessels, there are a number of reasons you might experience a popping sensation during exercise. Many conditions that lead to this clicking are not serious but may be annoying. If you feel pain, experience vision changes, dizziness, nausea or a numbing sensation, consult your doctor.

Ear Pressure

Stress or jolts can trigger popping in the ear canal. For example, when you run, your body absorbs the impact every time your foot hits the ground. The popping you hear may be coming from your middle ear. Part of the mechanism of the middle ear is to maintain equal air pressure. In other words, the pressure needs to be the same inside your ear as it is outside. The popping sound occurs as the pressure tries to equalize. This is a common occurrence and not a sign of a medical problem. You may hear the popping on one side of your head or both.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Temporomandibular joint disorder may be causing a clicking sensation 3. TMJ indicates an inflammation in the joints that connect the jaw to your skull. As you exercise, you may be opening your mouth to breathe and the popping you feel is your jaw clicking. With TMJ, the popping will not be limited to exercise. For instances, when you chew or talk, there may be a similar click. Other symptoms of TMJ include pain just under the ear, trouble opening your mouth and headache. If you feel your jaw click when you open it, see your doctor to determine to cause of inflammation in the jaw joints.

Arthritis

Arthritis in the neck can lead to a popping at the base of the skull when you move your head. This problem occurs when the bony vertebrae develop rough spots or spurs. These rough edges wear down the connective tissue and discs that make up the neck. As you move your head during exercise, the bones rub together. Other symptoms of arthritis include stiffness in the neck, headaches and weakness in the arms or hands. Treatment may involve physical therapy or a neck brace.

Considerations

A popping or snapping in the head can be a symptom of bleeding on the brain, or subarachnoid hemorrhage 4. Popping that immediately precedes a splitting headache and vomiting requires medical attention. Exercise elevates the blood pressure, and this may cause cerebral vascular problems. If you have high blood pressure and experience popping, stop exercising and see your doctor. If you develop a headache or problems with your vision, discontinue your routine and ask for medical help.