Health - Wellness
Why Exercise Sometimes Causes Headaches
By ANNE TAYLOR
Though exercise has many health benefits, some people experience headaches after working up a sweat. To treat and prevent unpleasant aches, first ask a medical professional to diagnose what kind of headaches you have; migraines, cluster headaches, and tension headaches can all occur after lots of physical activity.
People who are already prone to migraines or other types of headaches may get them more often after exercising, due to increased blood flow and circulation. The increased pressure in the head during physical movements, plus the dehydration that can result from sweating, are also possible causes of headaches.
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise is one way to prevent headaches, and it is best to try a sports drink with electrolytes to restore the body's balance. It's also essential to warm up to your workout slowly, avoid sudden intensity changes, and take a break when a headache comes on.