Synonyms
Weight-Lifter’s Headache; Diver’s Headache; Effort Headache
Definition
The headache is precipitated by any form of exercise. Recognized sub-varieties include “weight-lifter’s headache, diver’s headache, effort headache, etc.”
Characteristics
Since a patient with primary exertional headache (pEH) seldom goes to the doctor, there are very few epidemiological studies or reports on treatment options for pEH.
The new classification of the International Headache Society (IHS) provides the following description and diagnostic criteria for pEH.
Diagnostic Criteria
- 1.
Pain is bilateral, throbbing on onset, and short or long-lasting (5 min–48 h)
- 2.
It specifically occurs during or immediately after physical exercise requiring exertion.
- 3.
There is a close temporal relationship between pain and physical exercise, particularly in hot weather or at high altitude.
- 4.
The headache is prevented by avoiding excessive exertion.
- 5.
It cannot be attributed to any other disorder.
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References
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© 2007 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg
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Straube, A. (2007). Primary Exertional Headache. In: Schmidt, R., Willis, W. (eds) Encyclopedia of Pain. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-540-29805-2_3535
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-540-29805-2_3535
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