I noticed that after a hard work out (brick or long run) or sprint race, later in the day or evening I get a headache. I am wondering if this is a dehydration, fatigue, or heat issue. Any ideas.
I get these sometimes too and not sure why did a quick google search and come up w/ this :
http://www.active.com/running/Articles/Post-exercise_headaches.htm
I usually get them after hard workouts and think somehow it's related to blood pressure I take aspirin or the like and that usually helps. if that doesn't work for you might be worth a visit to the docs
I get headaches as well after intense workouts and races. Taking some tylenol or IBU immediately after it keeps the headaches from starting. If I don't take anything a nap really helps.
This sometimes happens to me as well, or sometimes a stomach ache occurs. After you run your hard work out MAKE SURE TO WARM DOWN and stretch after. Not warming down could very well be a factor. When I know i've ran hard, I like to lay somewhere flat, like the floor or carpet, and just stare up at the sky or the ceiling. It relaxes the muscles, and mind. This seems to work for me, just to kick my body out of hyperdrive mode, and it seems to help the night-time headaches and stomachaches. Hope i've been of some help ![]()
I believe you are most likely dehydrated. Question: do you ever have muscle cramping as well? How long of a workout are we talking here? Try staying well hydrated. If you typically sweat a lot, try a salt or electrolyte replacer. I use Hammer Endurolytes and the work well.
I get MASSIVE headaches after races and hard workouts. I'm definitely well-hydrated, cooled down and fed. My chiropracter thinks it has to do with my head and neck position - I lead a little with my chin while running...A nutritionist thought it might be out of balance electrolytes, so I'm taking calcium and magnesium supplements. I hate taking drugs prophylactically, but that's what it's come to for me - ibuprofin or aspirin right after races...and a little coca cola for caffeine. I also ice my neck and shoulders.
I get headaches too. I am now 59 and have been at this sport for 25 years. In the last few years I started getting headaches from time to time. I even have one now. I try to avoid taking Excedrin or Anacin which ALWAYS work for me, as they have some caffeine. When I take it, I am cured for sure.
Hard for me to tell what type of workout causes this. I ran the NYC marathon 8 days ago with no after headache. Today I ran 7.5 miles and I have a headache. These are never serious headaches, but annoying. I should just take the Excedrin and go on. Good luck all. Elie
I used to have this problem as well. I finally realized it was caused by low blood sugar. Immediately after a workout take in some calories, preferably liquid. If my workout ends at home I drink a big glass of milk. Away from home I use Hammer Recoverite. It is good to have some protein with the carbohydrates. Don't wait till after your shower, or til you drive home. The sooner the better. Give it a try, you have nothing to loose but pain. I have been exercise headache free for 14 years.
All the information/advice is great. I have started experimenting with some. Only time will tell. I have a turkey sprint coming up and I will be using the advice. I knew I could count on the tri folks.
Hello, I have the same problem even with low intensity workouts.
Could you please share your experiments, possibly not the medicines? I am going to try the caffeine. I tried already drinking more but it didn't work.
Thank you!
This is a very, very common sign of magnesium deficiency. I'd recommend you check out the book "The Magnesium Miracle" with Carolyn Dean, and also listen to this:
http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/2009/08/podcast-episode-54-the-magnesium-miracle/
Best of luck,
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