Exercise Headache - What You Can Do

Exercise isn't much fun if you get a headache afterwards.

If your headaches are "normal", then these tips might help you.

• If you don't exercise very often, you could be getting a headache simply because the exercise is helping your body to move stored toxins out, and you have a headache while they are being processed by your body.  Or you may simply be dehydrated and the exercise makes it worse.
• You can help prevent this by drinking enough water daily, at least 8 glasses, and drinking more while you exercise.  This will help your body to clear toxins daily, and also help to clear any which the workout has brought out.
• Another factor could be your shoes.  If you are running, or even walking farther than you are used to, make sure you have proper running or exercise shoes.  These help to absorb the shock and prevent you jarring your neck and spine, which could give you a headache.
• If a particular exercise brings on a headache, then avoid that exercise and do something else.  For example, you can ride an exercise bicycle or swim, which is a low-impact exercise compared to running or even walking.
• Make sure you warm up and cool down correctly, and work up to exercise gradually.
• Another thing to watch is your digestion.  Make sure you get fresh raw fruit and salad every day, as constipation can give you a headache as well.

If your headache is not normal for you, if it begins abruptly or if it is your first headache of this type, then according to the Mayo Clinic, you should consult your doctor.  There can be underlying causes for an exercise headache, which can range from something as serious as bleeding in the brain to something as simple as a sinus infection.  You can read more about exercise headaches, risk factors, symptoms and prevention in the Mayo Clinic Article on Exercise Headaches.