Sharp Pain in the Left Side of My Head During Exercise

in #blog5 years ago

Regular exercise boosts metabolism, elevates mood and benefits the heart, lungs and circulatory system. For some individuals, however, exercise results in head pain. A variety of causes could be the culprit. Some can be treated by self-care measures, while others require treatment from a qualified medical professional. Because of the possible risks involved, it's best to consult a doctor if head pain is consistently experienced while exercising. If symptoms such as fatigue, nausea and vision problems arise, seek immediate medical attention.

DIETARY ISSUES

Imbalances in eating and drinking habits can cause a stabbing pain on the left side of the head while exercising. When dehydrated, blood pressure falls, which means blood flow to the brain can be constricted, possibly resulting in a headache or a sharp stabbing pain. Not eating enough can have similar results. According to Brown University Health Education, foods such as processed meats, aged cheese, MSG, red wine and dairy products can cause head pain,. Consuming caffeine before exercise, whether in the form of coffee or an energy drink, also can cause one-sided head pain.

MIGRAINE HEADACHES

Migraine headaches are characterized by a painful throbbing or pulsating sensation on one side of the head, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition to head pain, migraines can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, blurred vision and a sensitivity to light. In the days before a migraine, constipation, diarrhea, depression, irritability, neck stiffness or food cravings may be experienced. A few people experience what's known as aura before their migraines occur. Auras often are visual disturbances, such as seeing spots or bright flashes of light, but they can be motor or verbal disturbances. Several things can trigger a migraine, including intense physical exertion.


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EXERCISE HEADACHES

Exercise headaches are classified into two categories: primary and secondary. Primary headaches occur after strenuous exercise and usually are described as throbbing. They have no known cause, are considered harmless and usually last from five minutes to 48 hours. Secondary headaches have the same symptoms as a primary headache but can be accompanied by double vision, vomiting, loss of consciousness or a rigid neck. They are not considered harmless because they occur as the result of an underlying problem with the brain, which can be serious. Secondary exercise headaches usually last one day or more. Most exercise headaches are felt on both sides of the head simultaneously but can be experienced on one side alone.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS

In some cases, exercising may be exacerbating an underlying medical condition, leading to a one-sided headache. For example, hypertension, or high blood pressure, does not often have symptoms, but the temporary increase in blood pressure during exercise may cause symptoms to occur, including a sharp, stabbing head pain. Issues with sinuses and allergies can cause headaches, which could be exacerbated by exercise. Some prescription medications can cause changes in blood pressure or cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to one-sided head pain. In rare cases, a sharp pain in the head is the result of a more serious issue, such as a tumor or a disease that affects the nerves.

CONSIDERATIONS

A sharp, stabbing pain while exercising that occurs relatively rarely most likely is a result of poor nutrition, dehydration, lack of sleep, stress or consuming a substance such as caffeine that affects blood circulation. If, however, headaches are experienced during exercise on a consistent basis, even if it's only twice in a row, it's best to consult a doctor to rule out a more serious problem. Discuss any medications being taken to ensure head pain is not a possible side effect. Migraines, primary exercise headaches and high blood pressure can be treated with medication, which a doctor will need to prescribe.


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