Which type of headache is specifically caused by exercise?

The primary exertional headache is specifically associated with physical activity, distinguishing it from other headache types. This type of headache is characterized by the onset of pain during or after sustained, strenuous exercise. The pain often presents as a throbbing or pulsating sensation, typically on both sides of the head, and can last from a few minutes to several days.

Key features of primary exertional headaches include their exclusivity to physical exertion and the lack of an underlying pathology, differentiating them from secondary headaches that may be caused by other medical conditions. Understanding this distinction is crucial for diagnosis and management in sports medicine, where athletes may frequently experience headaches related to their intense physical training or competition.

In contrast, other types of headaches, such as tension headaches, cluster headaches, and sinus headaches, have different triggers and characteristics, thus reinforcing the uniqueness of primary exertional headaches in relation to exercise-induced discomfort.