Symptoms

Primary exercise headaches

These headaches:

• Are usually described as throbbing
• Occur during or after strenuous exercise
• Affect both sides of the head in most cases

Secondary exercise headaches

These headaches may cause:

• The same symptoms as primary exercise headaches
• Vomiting
• Loss of consciousness
• Double vision
• Neck rigidity

Primary exercise headaches typically last between five minutes and 48 hours, while secondary exercise headaches usually last at least a day and sometimes linger for several days or longer.

When to see a doctor

If you experience a headache during or after exercise, consult your doctor. Call your doctor right away if the headache begins abruptly or if it's your first headache of this type.