When it comes to exercise headaches, there are two types -- primary exercise headaches and secondary exercise headaches. Primary exercise headaches aren’t usually a reason for concern and can be warded off with a little medication. But secondary exercise headaches are caused by something else.
When you get a primary exercise headache, the head will usually throb during the workout or right after. Usually, both sides of the head will hurt. The pain may last for five minutes or up to two days. Prescription medications can prevent these headaches.
Symptoms of a secondary exercise headache will be similar but may cause you to throw up, pass out, see double, and cause a stiff neck. The headache may linger for one day to many days.
If this type of headache comes on suddenly and isn’t one that you’ve experienced before, talk to your doctor. A secondary exercise headache can be an indicator of certain serious health conditions.