Runner's Headache?

NaturalRunner
NaturalRunner Posts: 15
in Fitness and Exercise
What are possible causes of "runner's headaches"? I love running but it, apparently, doesn't love me back. Each time I engage in it, I usually end up with a headache. It usually doesn't start while I'm running but shortly thereafter. Then, in the hours following the run, the headache worsens and nausea sets in. What could be the cause of this? I've been pretty good about staying hydrated but wonder if it could still be an issue. I've also read that losing sodium (through sweating) can cause it too but I'm not sure this is the issue because I sweat profusely doing other types of workouts and don't get the headaches.

Replies

  • rfuchs
    rfuchs Posts: 55 Member
    My first thought was dehydration. How intense are your runs? Distance? Are you eating something within 15 minutes of finishing? Are you trying to run too hard every time you go out?
  • cmriverside
    cmriverside Posts: 34,422 Member
    I used to get migraines from exercise.

    Try hydration, magnesium supplements. Migraines are caused by vasodilation/constriction problems. Magnesium deficiency has been shown to be part of the problem. Alternately, eat magnesium rich foods.

    You can google foods rich in magnesium.

    Here's one short synopsis:
    http://www.healthaliciousness.com/articles/foods-high-in-magnesium.php
  • NaturalRunner
    NaturalRunner Posts: 15
    The longest distance I've ever run is 3.4 miles. My normal runs are usually a mile or less. And I never push too hard for fear my head will explode (so to speak).
  • cristileigh
    cristileigh Posts: 158 Member
    I get a headache as well... and I've always felt it was from not breathing correctly or lack of oxygen.
  • iWaffle
    iWaffle Posts: 2,208 Member
    My first thought was dehydration. How intense are your runs? Distance? Are you eating something within 15 minutes of finishing? Are you trying to run too hard every time you go out?

    That was my guess as well. I have been getting mild head aches a few hours after my longer runs and suspected that this was just dehydration. I drank 20 oz of fluid during my last long run and that did seem to help. I would start there and elimnate that as a possibility first. Don't forget to stay hydrated really well the day before you run. That can help a lot with your demands during a run.

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