Couch to 5K Running Program (C25K)

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Headache after running

veganashley
veganashley Posts: 70 Member
in Social Groups
I'm on week 3 and loving it so far, except I get a bad headache after every run, and it lasts the rest of the day. Any ideas what might be causing it? I am eating back my calories burned (and not eating a deficit to begin with, as I'm not trying to lose weight). I'm running outside in the cold, so I know it's not a heat issue.

Dehydration? Electrolyte imbalance? I have no other ideas. Has anyone else experienced post-run headaches?

Replies

  • AsellusReborn
    AsellusReborn Posts: 1,112 Member
    This was more of an issue for me when I did the program back in August, but I definitely got dehydration headaches - making sure I was drinking enough every day (rather than just before the run) solved them pretty quickly. I don't know if that's your issue but I notice you don't log water so just figured I'd throw my experience out there.
  • pippacont
    pippacont Posts: 28 Member
    I used to get headaches every time I would exercise until a co-worker recommended I drink a ton of water. Now I drink at least 1-2 cups of water before I exercise, typically 2-3 during, and 1-2 after. That would be for a 30 min workout. For an hour, I would probably add a couple cups during exercise.
  • veganashley
    veganashley Posts: 70 Member
    I drink a lot of tea (probably 6 mugs a day), especially in the winter (and especially at work because my office has no heat!), and I wonder if the caffeine is the problem.

    I will up my water intake and try to log it for a while, and see if that helps. Thanks guys!
  • SRH7
    SRH7 Posts: 2,037 Member
    Having similar problems myself recently. I managed to stop the headaches last year by having an electrolyte drink before going running (Nuun or Zero tablets are low calorie - one in a pint of water did the trick). The headaches have started up again this week and I wonder if I'm clenching my teeth when running (been a bit stressed about my running lately so suspect I'm pulling faces when out and about!).

    Nuun or Zero tablets plus remembering to relax your face might help.
  • veganashley
    veganashley Posts: 70 Member
    I will look into those tablets. Thanks!
  • KathleenKP
    KathleenKP Posts: 580 Member
    Do you have a water bottle pack you can wear around your waist?

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