Solid workout = headache?

Jayne19099

I did a 10k run today, which is a solid effort for me, typically I would do a 5-7k run on the weekend and a few shorter runs during the week. Since the 10k run I have felt rather tired and have a headache. I've been drinking water, about 3 liters since getting back from the run during the day today. I ate a beef sandwich and some fruit after the run, no protein shake or smoothie.

I'm wondering if this is normal, and is there anything I can do to stop the fatigue/headache from happening?

Thank you!

mariah_papaya

I used to get mad headaches because I'd workout in the morning before eating anything - when I switched it up and started having at least a smoothie or a banana or yogurt or something (and coffee, of course!) they went away. Pre-fuelling
Nice work on the 10k by the way!

Athena98501

As the other poster indicated, it can happen due to low blood sugar. However, it can also happen due to high blood pressure. I experienced that phenomenon before I was put on blood pressure medication. Even in someone who's blood pressure is on the high end of normal, it will be higher during exertion.

blwenz

I used to get mad headaches because I'd workout in the morning before eating anything - when I switched it up and started having at least a smoothie or a banana or yogurt or something (and coffee, of course!) they went away. Pre-fuelling
Nice work on the 10k by the way!

Totally agree here. You should be "Pre-Fuelling" healthy food and make sure you start hydrating a few hours before the run. Water Post run is like putting on sunblock after you go to the beach :-)
Watch out for the cramps though, don't try drinking a crazy amount of water or food just before you start...

ThickMcRunFast

lack of sugar, dehydration, and sometimes low sodium can all be causes. Usually I only get bad headaches when I've been running a long time in the heat and my electrolyte balance is out of whack.

ecw3780

this happens to me sometimes when I work out...especially during Pilates. Usually drinking a good amount of water right when it starts helps me.

zephtalah

lack of sugar, dehydration, and sometimes low sodium can all be causes. Usually I only get bad headaches when I've been running a long time in the heat and my electrolyte balance is out of whack.

^^^This. Dehydratioin/Electrolyte issues can cause headaches.

Jayne19099

Thank you everyone!!

I really appreciate all the great advice!!!

I did eat some fruit before my run but I am now thinking it was not enough fuel, I'll try something like almond butter and a banana next time for more calories.

I'll also eat something salty earlier in the day, like a tomato + salt to make sure my electrolytes are not going to crash on me.

I typically have blood pressure on the low end of the scale and so am not too concerned about that.

Hydration is probably something I was lax on, I like the "sunburn" analogy

Best!