MISCELLANEOUS CAUSES OF HEADACHES: EXERTION HEADACHE

Exertion headache is a throbbing pain which can be brought on by exercise – such as running, swimming, sexual intercourse or sometimes even by sneezing and coughing. It particularly effects men over the age of forty. The headache is usually throbbing, extends over the whole of the skull, and lasts for a few hours. It is often associated with nausea – and sometimes even vomiting – and the need to avoid bright lights (photophobia), which are painful.

Exertion headaches may actually be a rare form of migraine. Very rarely they can be associated with tumours or abnormal blood vessel formations inside the brain, and because of this it is wise for a full set of investigations to be carried out.

Treatment of exertion headaches can be surprisingly simple. For some reason indomethacin, one of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) seems to be very effective in removing the pain; aspirin can also be used. Beta-blockers, such as propranolol, may also help. In those cases caused by blood vessel abnormalities or tumours, surgery may be necessary.

Complementary treatment

Lavender oil, applied neat to the nostrils can have a powerful effect on exertion headaches, or try a tiny valerian tablet.

Exertion headache shares a lot of similarities with migraine and may be a rare form of it; it is also identical to true coital headache.

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