Imagine waking up on a gorgeous Saturday morning with plans for a workout that you’ve been looking forward to. However, you’re met with a persistent headache that just won’t quit when your alarm goes off at 7 a.m. Should you push through and exercise as planned, or should you take a break? According to Thomas Pontinen, MD, a physician and co-founder of Midwest Anesthesia and Pain Specialists, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to headaches. Each person is different, and what works for one may not work for another.
However, there are clues that can help you determine whether it’s safe to work out with a headache. Understanding the underlying causes of your headache and how your body responds to exercise can guide your decision. While skipping a workout may be necessary in some cases, moving your body can actually help alleviate headaches in other situations.
In general, staying active can also help prevent headaches in the first place. Exercise can help regulate many core functions of the body, according to Dr. Pontinen. It’s essential to understand the different types of headaches and how they may affect your ability to exercise.
1. **Tension Headache:** These headaches often feel like a band tightening around your head and can involve the neck. Exercise can actually help soothe tension headaches by relieving muscle tension. Starting with stretches, yoga, Pilates, or cardiovascular workouts can be beneficial.
2. **Migraine:** Migraines can vary in symptoms and intensity, making it challenging to determine if exercise is safe during an episode. Some individuals find that mild exercise can alleviate migraine pain, while others may need to rest in a dark room. Starting slowly with low-intensity activities like yoga may help prevent migraines in the long run.
3. **Dehydration Headache:** Dehydration can trigger migraines or tension-type headaches. It’s crucial to hydrate before, during, and after exercise if you suspect dehydration is causing your headache. It’s best to avoid intense exercise if you are dehydrated and focus on rehydrating first.
4. **Fatigue Headache:** Lack of sleep or physical exhaustion can lead to fatigue headaches. Regular exercise may help improve sleep quality and reduce stress, ultimately preventing fatigue headaches. However, it’s essential to listen to your body and avoid overexertion.
5. **Low Blood Sugar Headache:** Working out with low blood sugar can be dangerous, especially for individuals prone to blood sugar headaches. Eating a small snack containing simple carbs before exercise can help prevent these headaches.
If you decide to proceed with your workout, remember to go slow, listen to your body, include warmups and cooldowns, and be mindful of how you feel throughout the workout. Ultimately, paying attention to your body’s signals and adjusting your exercise routine accordingly is key to exercising safely with a headache.
