Tanya Dutt

Could Your Sudden Weight Loss Be A Health Red Flag? How To Spot Warning Signs

Maya had always been at a healthy weight, maintaining her routine of regular exercise and a balanced diet. But in the past few months, something strange began to happen. Despite keeping up with her usual eating habits, she noticed the number on the scale steadily dropping. At first, she thought it was stress or perhaps just a coincidence. But when her clothes started fitting looser and she began feeling more fatigued than usual, she decided to see a doctor. What she learned surprised her: unexplained <span>weight loss</span> is not always a sign of good health.

Losing weight unintentionally may seem like a dream come true for many, but dietitian Christine Goukasian, senior dietitian at the UCLA Division of Clinical Nutrition warns in a news release that it could signal something more serious. "It’s not typical to have a noticeable drop in weight without changing how much you're eating, being more physically active, or trying to lose weight," she explains. "Unexplained weight loss is a red flag."

While small fluctuations in weight—such as a pound or two—are normal and can be caused by hormonal changes or water retention, significant and persistent weight loss could indicate an underlying health issue. According to Goukasian, a loss of 10 pounds or at least 5% of your body weight within a 6- to 12-month period should raise concern.

The risk is higher for older adults, particularly those living in community housing, where the likelihood of health problems contributing to unintended weight loss increases. As many as 2 in 10 older adults experience unexplained weight loss, with the figure rising to 6 in 10 among those in community settings.

<h2>Could <span rel="noindex">Sudden Weight Loss</span> Lead to Cancer?</h2>

Cancer is the number one cause of unexplained weight loss, accounting for over a third of cases. Goukasian highlights that weight loss can occur even in early-stage cancers of the colon, pancreas, and lungs, so it’s important to seek medical advice as soon as you notice significant weight changes.

<h2>Can Gastrointestinal Issues cause Weight Loss?</h2>

Gastrointestinal issues are another common cause, accounting for between 10% and 20% of unexpected weight loss. Conditions like chronic diarrhea, inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, or even overuse of laxatives—often linked to eating disorders—can lead to substantial weight changes.

<h2>How your Mental Health impacts your Weight?</h2>

Mental health plays a crucial role too. Anxiety, depression, and stress can all reduce appetite or disrupt normal eating habits. "If you're not eating enough because of emotional distress, or missing meals due to sleep problems, you may experience weight loss," says Goukasian. Certain medications used to treat mental health conditions can also alter taste, smell, and appetite, further contributing to weight loss.

<h2>Unexpected Causes of Unexplained Weight Loss</h2>

Other factors like dementia, thyroid disorders, diabetes, gum disease, and swallowing difficulties can make eating uncomfortable, leading to unintentional weight loss. Financial constraints or lack of access to nutritious food are also contributing factors.

<h4>Importance of Seeking Medical Help</h4>

However, not all cases of unexplained weight loss are linked to life-threatening conditions. Many are manageable or treatable once diagnosed. That's why it’s crucial for anyone experiencing concerning weight loss to consult their healthcare provider. A thorough physical and mental health examination, along with blood tests and imaging, can help uncover the root cause.

"Identifying the cause of unexplained weight loss can take time and require multiple tests," Goukasian concludes. "But being proactive and paying attention to your body is the first step toward better health."

Unexplained weight loss is often a red flag for underlying health issues. Identifying the signs early can make a crucial difference in treatment and recovery.

<ul><li>Unintentional loss of 10+ pounds or 5% of body weight in 6-12 months.</li><li>Fatigue or lack of energy despite adequate rest.</li><li>Changes in appetite or a sudden disinterest in food.</li><li>Digestive issues like chronic diarrhea or bloating.</li></ul>

Health Conditions A-Z

health

weight loss

weight loss strategies

sudden weight loss

health risks due to weight loss

Health and fitness

Red Alert In Many Parts Of India, As The Weather Soars Up To 49° C, Know How To Be Safe

Kennedy Names New Vaccine Advisers Among Whom Are Anti-Vaxxers And Those Who Spread Misinformation

Fact Check: Are Power Plant Emissions Really Not Dangerous, As The EPA Claims?

Fitness

Beyond Fruits – How To Retain Hydration And Stay Safe In Summers

Can This Extremely Hot Weather Trigger Our Mental Health?

You Are Hurting Your Gut Health With These Habits

Avoid The Heat With These Indoor Exercises

Stay Sharp! Activities That Keep Cognitive Diseases At Bay

Protect Your Cardiovascular Health With These Heart Healthy Foods

Ways To Ease Nighttime Anxiety

Smoothie Ideas That Can Help With Weight Loss

Low Fat Foods That Are Actually Unhealthy

All Suryanamaskar Poses And How To Do Them

Do Changing Seasons Affect Your Weight?

Can Heatwave Affect Your Diet?

Heatwave To Monsoon: Health Concerns With Seasonal Changes

Standing Exercises That Help You Burn Calories

Reasons To Do Dancing As A Workout

Why Summer Fruits Are A Great Addition To Your Diet?

What Should You Avoid For Your Bladder?

Lower-Body Exercises For Strong Foundation

Healthy Drinks That Improve Your Digestion

World Tobacco Day: Unexpected Ways Smoking Can Affect You

Seasonal Mood Swings? How Weather Affects Mental Health

Is Calorie Counting Healthy? Dos And Don’ts

Heat-Related Illnesses That You Should Know

Menstrual Hygiene Day: Tips On Period Hygiene

​Add These High Protein Vegetarian Meals To Your Diet​

Top 10 Workouts That Burn Most Calorie

Makhana Season – Healthy &amp; Quick Foxnut Recipes

Monsoon Ahead – Tips On Building Rainy Season Immunity

Do You Have Prickly Heat Rash – Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

Healthy No-Cook Recipes You Can Try

How Do You Calorie Count – Numbers And Nutrients

Unexpected Signs Of Dehydration – Safety And Precaution Measures

Leg Exercises You Can Do At Home To Build Strength

Foods That Promote Skin Elasticity

Must-Do Chest Exercises You Can Try At Home

What Are The Symptoms Of JN.1 COVID-19 Strain?

Why Does Sleeping Become Harder As You Age?

High-Fiber Healthy Drinks You Should Try

10 Dumbbell Exercise Variations For Upper-Body Strength

A Parent’s Guide To Pets: Important Points To Consider For Your Child’s Health

Maya had always been at a healthy weight, maintaining her routine of regular exercise and a balanced diet. But in the past few months, something strange began to happen. Despite keeping up with her usual eating habits, she noticed the number on the scale steadily dropping. At first, she thought it was stress or perhaps just a coincidence. But when her clothes started fitting looser and she began feeling more fatigued than usual, she decided to see a doctor. What she learned surprised her: unexplained weight loss is not always a sign of good health.Losing weight unintentionally may seem like a dream come true for many, but dietitian Christine Goukasian, senior dietitian at the UCLA Division of Clinical Nutrition warns in a news release that it could signal something more serious. "It’s not typical to have a noticeable drop in weight without changing how much you're eating, being more physically active, or trying to lose weight," she explains. "Unexplained weight loss is a red flag."While small fluctuations in weight—such as a pound or two—are normal and can be caused by hormonal changes or water retention, significant and persistent weight loss could indicate an underlying health issue. According to Goukasian, a loss of 10 pounds or at least 5% of your body weight within a 6- to 12-month period should raise concern.The risk is higher for older adults, particularly those living in community housing, where the likelihood of health problems contributing to unintended weight loss increases. As many as 2 in 10 older adults experience unexplained weight loss, with the figure rising to 6 in 10 among those in community settings.Could Sudden Weight Loss Lead to Cancer?Cancer is the number one cause of unexplained weight loss, accounting for over a third of cases. Goukasian highlights that weight loss can occur even in early-stage cancers of the colon, pancreas, and lungs, so it’s important to seek medical advice as soon as you notice significant weight changes.Can Gastrointestinal Issues cause Weight Loss?Gastrointestinal issues are another common cause, accounting for between 10% and 20% of unexpected weight loss. Conditions like chronic diarrhea, inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, or even overuse of laxatives—often linked to eating disorders—can lead to substantial weight changes.How your Mental Health impacts your Weight?Mental health plays a crucial role too. Anxiety, depression, and stress can all reduce appetite or disrupt normal eating habits. "If you're not eating enough because of emotional distress, or missing meals due to sleep problems, you may experience weight loss," says Goukasian. Certain medications used to treat mental health conditions can also alter taste, smell, and appetite, further contributing to weight loss.Unexpected Causes of Unexplained Weight LossOther factors like dementia, thyroid disorders, diabetes, gum disease, and swallowing difficulties can make eating uncomfortable, leading to unintentional weight loss. Financial constraints or lack of access to nutritious food are also contributing factors.Importance of Seeking Medical HelpHowever, not all cases of unexplained weight loss are linked to life-threatening conditions. Many are manageable or treatable once diagnosed. That's why it’s crucial for anyone experiencing concerning weight loss to consult their healthcare provider. A thorough physical and mental health examination, along with blood tests and imaging, can help uncover the root cause."Identifying the cause of unexplained weight loss can take time and require multiple tests," Goukasian concludes. "But being proactive and paying attention to your body is the first step toward better health."Warning Signs to Watch ForUnexplained weight loss is often a red flag for underlying health issues. Identifying the signs early can make a crucial difference in treatment and recovery.Unintentional loss of 10+ pounds or 5% of body weight in 6-12 months.Fatigue or lack of energy despite adequate rest.Changes in appetite or a sudden disinterest in food.Digestive issues like chronic diarrhea or bloating.

could your sudden weight loss be a health red flag? how to spot warning signs

Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Strong Ankles, Less Injuries: Yoga Poses That Can Help Strengthen Your Ankle

Yoga Poses That Can Help Strengthen Your Ankle

Desk Work Leaving You With Stiff Shoulders? Try Yoga Poses For Help

desk work leaving you with stiff shoulders? try yoga poses for help

Struggling to Get Out Of Bed After A Big Weekend? Try These Stretches For Relief

struggling to get out of bed after a big weekend? try these stretches for relief

Ayurveda

Can Ayurveda Helps Us Fix Our Sleeping Habits?

can ayurveda helps us fix our sleeping habits?

Health News

MPOX Is Still A Public Health Emergency, Says WHO

mpox is still a public health emergency, says who

Do you often worry about twisting your ankle? Are you experiencing foot pain, balance issues, or decreased mobility as you get older? These could all be signs that your ankles are weak. While you may not notice it as much, ankles are a big part of our balance and strength foundation. They support our movements, whether it is walking, running, stretching, or even simple flexing. 

When our ankles grow weak, things and situations start changing, however you may not realize it may be due to your weak ankles. You may be getting into situations like twisting your ankles more often, experiencing pain during normal movements, etc. The Cleveland Clinic explains that weak ankles have a great effect on your knees and hips. They explained that deficient ankles cause more strain on your knees as well as the internal rotation of your hips, ultimately making it difficult to walk. However, it can be improved. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Yoga</span> Poses for Strong Ankles </h2>

The good news is that you can actively work to strengthen these crucial ankle muscles and the connective tissues around them. This effort will not only help prevent injuries but also significantly improve your balance and overall movement. Here are some yoga poses you can do to improve your ankle health. 

This pose involves kneeling and arching your back, reaching for your heels. It strengthens the front of the ankles and feet while also improving overall stability and flexibility in the lower body. As you press your shins and tops of your feet into the ground, your ankles engage to support the pose. 

Imagine sitting in an invisible chair. This pose deeply engages the muscles in your calves and ankles as you lower your hips. It builds strength in the entire foot and ankle complex, improving stability and endurance, which are crucial for preventing ankle rolling during daily activities or sports. 

While primarily a resting pose, Child's Pose can gently stretch the top of your feet and ankles, especially if you sit back on your heels. It helps to release tension and improve flexibility in the ankle joint, which is important for overall ankle health and reducing stiffness. 

This seated pose involves stacking your knees. While the main focus is on the hips, the feet and ankles are gently stretched and aligned. It encourages external rotation in the ankles and can help release tension, improving overall ankle mobility and preventing common stiffness that can lead to injury. 

Standing on one leg while wrapping the other around it, Eagle Pose is a powerful balance pose that significantly challenges and strengthens the stabilizing muscles around your standing ankle. It builds incredible ankle stability, proprioception (your body's awareness in space), and improves overall balance, making your ankles more resilient against twists and sprains. 

A simple cross-legged seated pose, Easy Pose might seem basic, but it's foundational for ankle flexibility. It gently stretches the ankles and feet, improving comfort in seated positions and maintaining mobility in the joint. This consistent gentle stretching helps prevent stiffness that can contribute to weak ankles.

<h2>Eight-Angle Pose (Astavakrasana) </h2>

This advanced arm balance requires significant core and arm strength, but it also heavily relies on strong and flexible ankles to hook around the arm and support the body's weight. It dramatically builds strength and control in the entire ankle joint, demanding high levels of stability and engagement. 

<h2>Extended Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana) </h2>

This standing balance pose involves extending one leg forward or to the side. It greatly challenges the stabilizing muscles of your standing ankle. Holding this pose strengthens the ankle's ability to maintain balance and withstand shifts in weight, crucial for preventing common ankle injuries during movement. 

Yoga for Strong Ankles

Yoga

Yoga Asanas

Yoga Poses to Strengthen Your Ankle

Strengthen Your Ankle

Exercising for ankle strength

Yoga & Asanas

Yoga and health

Do you often worry about twisting your ankle? Are you experiencing foot pain, balance issues, or decreased mobility as you get older? These could all be signs that your ankles are weak. While you may not notice it as much, ankles are a big part of our balance and strength foundation. They support our movements, whether it is walking, running, stretching, or even simple flexing. When our ankles grow weak, things and situations start changing, however you may not realize it may be due to your weak ankles. You may be getting into situations like twisting your ankles more often, experiencing pain during normal movements, etc. The Cleveland Clinic explains that weak ankles have a great effect on your knees and hips. They explained that deficient ankles cause more strain on your knees as well as the internal rotation of your hips, ultimately making it difficult to walk. However, it can be improved. Yoga Poses for Strong Ankles The good news is that you can actively work to strengthen these crucial ankle muscles and the connective tissues around them. This effort will not only help prevent injuries but also significantly improve your balance and overall movement. Here are some yoga poses you can do to improve your ankle health. Camel Pose (Ustrasana) This pose involves kneeling and arching your back, reaching for your heels. It strengthens the front of the ankles and feet while also improving overall stability and flexibility in the lower body. As you press your shins and tops of your feet into the ground, your ankles engage to support the pose. Chair Pose (Utkatasana) Imagine sitting in an invisible chair. This pose deeply engages the muscles in your calves and ankles as you lower your hips. It builds strength in the entire foot and ankle complex, improving stability and endurance, which are crucial for preventing ankle rolling during daily activities or sports. Child's Pose (Balasana) While primarily a resting pose, Child's Pose can gently stretch the top of your feet and ankles, especially if you sit back on your heels. It helps to release tension and improve flexibility in the ankle joint, which is important for overall ankle health and reducing stiffness. Cow Face Pose (Gomukhasana) This seated pose involves stacking your knees. While the main focus is on the hips, the feet and ankles are gently stretched and aligned. It encourages external rotation in the ankles and can help release tension, improving overall ankle mobility and preventing common stiffness that can lead to injury. Eagle Pose (Garudasana) Standing on one leg while wrapping the other around it, Eagle Pose is a powerful balance pose that significantly challenges and strengthens the stabilizing muscles around your standing ankle. It builds incredible ankle stability, proprioception (your body's awareness in space), and improves overall balance, making your ankles more resilient against twists and sprains. Easy Pose (Sukhasana) A simple cross-legged seated pose, Easy Pose might seem basic, but it's foundational for ankle flexibility. It gently stretches the ankles and feet, improving comfort in seated positions and maintaining mobility in the joint. This consistent gentle stretching helps prevent stiffness that can contribute to weak ankles. Eight-Angle Pose (Astavakrasana) This advanced arm balance requires significant core and arm strength, but it also heavily relies on strong and flexible ankles to hook around the arm and support the body's weight. It dramatically builds strength and control in the entire ankle joint, demanding high levels of stability and engagement. Extended Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana) This standing balance pose involves extending one leg forward or to the side. It greatly challenges the stabilizing muscles of your standing ankle. Holding this pose strengthens the ankle's ability to maintain balance and withstand shifts in weight, crucial for preventing common ankle injuries during movement. 

strong ankles, less injuries: yoga poses that can help strengthen your ankle

Why Your Post-Workout Headache Isn’t Just About Dehydration, Here's What Could Be Wrong

why your post-workout headache isn’t just about dehydration, here's what could be wrong

Whether you are a student, an office worker or simply someone who has to spend long hours at a desk, you can probably relate to shoulder and muscle pain. Although many people believe that desk jobs are not strenuous, that is not true. Spending long hours working in the same position can cause people to develop many bodily issues. These problems do not have short-term fixes; one must take a lot of steps to ensure their back health along with their spine health does not suffer. 

It's well-known that spending eight or more hours a day seated at a desk can negatively impact your health. Prolonged sitting often leads to discomfort and pain in the neck, shoulders, and lower back due to pressure on the lumbar spine, overstretching of the mid and upper back, and tightness in the chest and hips. 

<h2>Why Should You Do <span rel="noindex">Desk Yoga</span>? </h2>

Fortunately, simple yoga techniques can help alleviate these common work-related tensions and stresses. To help with this, there are desk <span>yoga poses</span> that you can easily incorporate into your workday to feel more relaxed and improve your well-being. These poses are inspired by practices often experienced on yoga retreats, bringing the benefits directly to your office. 

Lift arms overhead, palms together. Gently lean to one side for a few breaths, then switch. This stretches your sides and spine, boosting focus. It's a quick way to refresh your mind and body. 

While sitting, cross one leg over the other, flexing your foot. Stay upright, feeling a stretch in your upper thigh. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch. This opens your hips and chest, bringing balance back to your body. 

Start seated with feet flat. Use only your leg and glute muscles to stand up, then slowly sit back down. This strengthens leg muscles often weakened by sitting, helping you feel more active. 

Stand with feet wide. Clasp hands behind your back, then fold forward at your hips, bringing arms forward. Keep legs and arms straight. This stretches your spine and legs, opens shoulders, and clears your mind. 

Extend arms overhead, circling wrists. Then, quickly spread fingers and clench fists. Stretch wrists by gently pressing palms up and down. These quick exercises boost blood flow, easing hand and wrist tension. 

Stand facing a sturdy desk, hands shoulder-width apart. Walk feet back, leaning chest diagonally. Lower your body, hugging elbows to ribs. Push back up. Repeat 8-12 times to build arm strength and relax your neck. 

From Desk Chaturanga, keep arms straight and lean hips toward the desk, opening your chest. Keep legs strong to protect your lower back. Hold for 5-10 breaths. This pose opens your chest and lengthens your spine, improving posture. 

Sit tall, arms at a 90-degree angle. Cross one arm over the other, interlocking palms. Lift elbows, stretching fingers up. Hold for a few breaths, then switch. This pose can prevent carpal tunnel and strengthen arm and shoulder muscles. 

Desk Work Yoga

Desk Yoga

yoga for stiff shoulders

Yoga you can do sitting

yoga poses

Whether you are a student, an office worker or simply someone who has to spend long hours at a desk, you can probably relate to shoulder and muscle pain. Although many people believe that desk jobs are not strenuous, that is not true. Spending long hours working in the same position can cause people to develop many bodily issues. These problems do not have short-term fixes; one must take a lot of steps to ensure their back health along with their spine health does not suffer. It's well-known that spending eight or more hours a day seated at a desk can negatively impact your health. Prolonged sitting often leads to discomfort and pain in the neck, shoulders, and lower back due to pressure on the lumbar spine, overstretching of the mid and upper back, and tightness in the chest and hips. Why Should You Do Desk Yoga? Fortunately, simple yoga techniques can help alleviate these common work-related tensions and stresses. To help with this, there are desk yoga poses that you can easily incorporate into your workday to feel more relaxed and improve your well-being. These poses are inspired by practices often experienced on yoga retreats, bringing the benefits directly to your office. Seated Crescent Moon Lift arms overhead, palms together. Gently lean to one side for a few breaths, then switch. This stretches your sides and spine, boosting focus. It's a quick way to refresh your mind and body. Chair Pigeon While sitting, cross one leg over the other, flexing your foot. Stay upright, feeling a stretch in your upper thigh. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch. This opens your hips and chest, bringing balance back to your body. Sit and Stand Chair Pose Start seated with feet flat. Use only your leg and glute muscles to stand up, then slowly sit back down. This strengthens leg muscles often weakened by sitting, helping you feel more active. Standing Seal Pose Stand with feet wide. Clasp hands behind your back, then fold forward at your hips, bringing arms forward. Keep legs and arms straight. This stretches your spine and legs, opens shoulders, and clears your mind. Wrist and Finger Stretches Extend arms overhead, circling wrists. Then, quickly spread fingers and clench fists. Stretch wrists by gently pressing palms up and down. These quick exercises boost blood flow, easing hand and wrist tension. Desk Chaturanga Stand facing a sturdy desk, hands shoulder-width apart. Walk feet back, leaning chest diagonally. Lower your body, hugging elbows to ribs. Push back up. Repeat 8-12 times to build arm strength and relax your neck. Desk Upward Dog From Desk Chaturanga, keep arms straight and lean hips toward the desk, opening your chest. Keep legs strong to protect your lower back. Hold for 5-10 breaths. This pose opens your chest and lengthens your spine, improving posture. Eagle Arms Sit tall, arms at a 90-degree angle. Cross one arm over the other, interlocking palms. Lift elbows, stretching fingers up. Hold for a few breaths, then switch. This pose can prevent carpal tunnel and strengthen arm and shoulder muscles. 

Health & Wellness

NHS Doctor Warns Using Tap Water For This Practice Could Expose You To Brain-Eating Amoeba

nhs doctor warns using tap water for this practice could expose you to brain-eating amoeba

Hay Fever Is Worse Than Ever This Year- Avoid These 3 Everyday Triggers

hay fever is worse than ever this year- avoid these 3 everyday triggers

Nothing ruins a hard workout like being benched by a thudding headache. Dehydration often gets the blame, but it's certainly not the only culprit. Post-exercise headaches, as it turns out, are more complicated than that, with multiple triggers including blood sugar drops, neck tension—and even in some instances, something more sinister.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or training for your next triathlon, understanding the root cause of your post-workout headaches is essential to managing them and preventing them from coming back.

Exercise headaches—also known as exertional headaches—are headaches that arise during or shortly after exercise. They're generally characterized by a throbbing sensation on both sides of the head and may persist anywhere from a few minutes to as long as 48 hours. Initially described by French physician Jules Tinel in 1932, the headaches have become a frequent complaint among fitness enthusiasts since.

The condition occurs in approximately 12% of adults, though prevalence is highly variable across studies—1% to 26%. Most cases are benign and transient, but frequent or severe headaches need further scrutiny, as they can be related to underlying illness.

<h2>Multiple Causes Of Exercise Headaches</h2>

While dehydration is a common headache trigger, it's usually not the sole cause. Here's a summary of other potential causes:

They arise without any concomitant medical disease. They're probably secondary to changes in blood pressure and flow within the brain during exercise. When blood vessels dilate quickly to meet increased oxygen demand, it can cause pain in the head. Women and people with a history of migraines appear to be more prone.

<h4>2. Heat and Environmental Conditions</h4>

Hot, humid climates can make a headache more probable. Your brain doesn't perspire like the rest of your body; rather, it cools itself with additional blood flow, which could add to intracranial pressure. Sunlight exposure is a factor as well—migraine sufferers can be especially sensitive to heat and light.

Sweating during exercise results in fluid loss. If not replaced, it can result in dehydration—a established cause of headache severity and frequency. But surprisingly, dehydration might not itself cause the headache. Instead, it raises the burden your body is bearing during exercise, and this makes a headache more probable.

Exercising on an empty stomach or without sufficient fueling will lower your blood glucose below 70 mg/dL, resulting in a state of hypoglycemia. Symptoms range from shakiness and dizziness to headaches. Consume a carb-rich snack 30–60 minutes prior to exercising to stabilize the glucose levels.

Weightlifting while having overstraining neck muscles or poor posture in yoga exercises can lead to cervicogenic headaches, which are caused by the cervical spine and muscles and neck and shoulder areas. Such headaches may not be present with neck pain and thus are difficult to diagnose.

<h4>6. Tight Gear and External Compression</h4>

Helmets, caps, or even tightly fitting goggles can cause pressure headaches by squeezing the scalp and overlying tissue. Called external compression headaches, they generally clear within an hour of taking off the equipment.

<h2>When Should You Worry? Red Flags to Look Out For</h2>

Most post-exercise headaches are harmless and go away on their own. Nevertheless, if you have the following symptoms, you should get medical help:

<ul><li>Sudden, severe headache (thunderclap headache)</li><li>Visual disturbances or confusion</li><li>Neck stiffness, nausea, or vomiting</li><li>Headache that lasts more than 24 hours</li><li>Newly developed headaches after the age of 50</li><li>Headaches accompanied by fever or seizure</li></ul>

These symptoms can indicate serious illnesses such as a subarachnoid hemorrhage, reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome, or a cervical artery dissection.

<h2>How to Prevent Exercise-Induced Headaches?</h2>

Although there is no single solution to preventing these headaches, a number of simple steps can help minimize your risk significantly:

<h4>1. Focus on Warm-Up and Cool-Down Procedures</h4>

Bouncing right into high-intensity work can stun your system. A gradual warm-up lets your circulatory vessels adjust, and a cooldown restores circulation to baseline levels.

<h4>2. Hydrate Before, During, and After</h4>

For the light to moderate workout, drink water. But for heavy sweating or exercising longer than 90 minutes, use drinks that have electrolytes to replenish sodium and potassium lost in sweat.

Avoid working out on an empty stomach. Instead, eat a balanced pre-workout snack that includes carbohydrates and a small amount of protein. For example, a banana with peanut butter or a smoothie with oats can sustain your energy and help prevent blood sugar dips.

<h4>4. Be Mindful of Environmental Conditions</h4>

Don't exercise at the hottest part of the day or in extremely hot conditions. Work out in shady spots or indoor facilities with air conditioning when necessary.

<h4>5. Practice Proper Form and Technique</h4>

No matter if you're doing weights or a plank, poor posture can cause muscle strain and tension headaches. Think about getting help from a certified trainer or physical therapist to hone your form.

Ensure helmets, goggles, or headbands fit tightly but not so tightly that pressure is felt. Ensure adjustable accessories and rest in case of discomfort.

<h2>When to See a Healthcare Provider?</h2>

If you find yourself repeatedly struggling with post-exercise headaches even after making these changes, it's time to speak with a healthcare professional. While the majority of examples can be assessed with a physical examination and medical history, additional testing such as a CT or MRI will be considered in exceptional circumstances.

Pregnant women or those who have underlying medical issues should always speak with their healthcare professionals if exercise headaches persist or shift pattern.

Exercise headaches are a nuisance, but they're not usually dangerous. The trick is determining your personal triggers—whether dehydration, heat, blood sugar, posture, or equipment and taking preventative measures. With a few conscious changes to your routine, you can have headache-free workouts and get back on track.

fitness and health

exercise headache

post workout headache

dehydration headache

workout headache causes

prevent exercise headache

heat headache

cervicogenic headache prevention

Nothing ruins a hard workout like being benched by a thudding headache. Dehydration often gets the blame, but it's certainly not the only culprit. Post-exercise headaches, as it turns out, are more complicated than that, with multiple triggers including blood sugar drops, neck tension—and even in some instances, something more sinister.Whether you’re a weekend warrior or training for your next triathlon, understanding the root cause of your post-workout headaches is essential to managing them and preventing them from coming back.What Are Exercise Headaches?Exercise headaches—also known as exertional headaches—are headaches that arise during or shortly after exercise. They're generally characterized by a throbbing sensation on both sides of the head and may persist anywhere from a few minutes to as long as 48 hours. Initially described by French physician Jules Tinel in 1932, the headaches have become a frequent complaint among fitness enthusiasts since.The condition occurs in approximately 12% of adults, though prevalence is highly variable across studies—1% to 26%. Most cases are benign and transient, but frequent or severe headaches need further scrutiny, as they can be related to underlying illness.Multiple Causes Of Exercise HeadachesWhile dehydration is a common headache trigger, it's usually not the sole cause. Here's a summary of other potential causes:1. Primary Exercise HeadachesThey arise without any concomitant medical disease. They're probably secondary to changes in blood pressure and flow within the brain during exercise. When blood vessels dilate quickly to meet increased oxygen demand, it can cause pain in the head. Women and people with a history of migraines appear to be more prone.2. Heat and Environmental ConditionsHot, humid climates can make a headache more probable. Your brain doesn't perspire like the rest of your body; rather, it cools itself with additional blood flow, which could add to intracranial pressure. Sunlight exposure is a factor as well—migraine sufferers can be especially sensitive to heat and light.3. Role of DehydrationSweating during exercise results in fluid loss. If not replaced, it can result in dehydration—a established cause of headache severity and frequency. But surprisingly, dehydration might not itself cause the headache. Instead, it raises the burden your body is bearing during exercise, and this makes a headache more probable.4. Low Blood Sugar LevelsExercising on an empty stomach or without sufficient fueling will lower your blood glucose below 70 mg/dL, resulting in a state of hypoglycemia. Symptoms range from shakiness and dizziness to headaches. Consume a carb-rich snack 30–60 minutes prior to exercising to stabilize the glucose levels.5. Poor Posture and Bad FormWeightlifting while having overstraining neck muscles or poor posture in yoga exercises can lead to cervicogenic headaches, which are caused by the cervical spine and muscles and neck and shoulder areas. Such headaches may not be present with neck pain and thus are difficult to diagnose.6. Tight Gear and External CompressionHelmets, caps, or even tightly fitting goggles can cause pressure headaches by squeezing the scalp and overlying tissue. Called external compression headaches, they generally clear within an hour of taking off the equipment.When Should You Worry? Red Flags to Look Out ForMost post-exercise headaches are harmless and go away on their own. Nevertheless, if you have the following symptoms, you should get medical help:Sudden, severe headache (thunderclap headache)Visual disturbances or confusionNeck stiffness, nausea, or vomitingHeadache that lasts more than 24 hoursNewly developed headaches after the age of 50Headaches accompanied by fever or seizureThese symptoms can indicate serious illnesses such as a subarachnoid hemorrhage, reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome, or a cervical artery dissection.How to Prevent Exercise-Induced Headaches?Although there is no single solution to preventing these headaches, a number of simple steps can help minimize your risk significantly:1. Focus on Warm-Up and Cool-Down ProceduresBouncing right into high-intensity work can stun your system. A gradual warm-up lets your circulatory vessels adjust, and a cooldown restores circulation to baseline levels.2. Hydrate Before, During, and AfterFor the light to moderate workout, drink water. But for heavy sweating or exercising longer than 90 minutes, use drinks that have electrolytes to replenish sodium and potassium lost in sweat.3. Fuel Up SmartlyAvoid working out on an empty stomach. Instead, eat a balanced pre-workout snack that includes carbohydrates and a small amount of protein. For example, a banana with peanut butter or a smoothie with oats can sustain your energy and help prevent blood sugar dips.4. Be Mindful of Environmental ConditionsDon't exercise at the hottest part of the day or in extremely hot conditions. Work out in shady spots or indoor facilities with air conditioning when necessary.5. Practice Proper Form and TechniqueNo matter if you're doing weights or a plank, poor posture can cause muscle strain and tension headaches. Think about getting help from a certified trainer or physical therapist to hone your form.6. Get Proper Gear FitEnsure helmets, goggles, or headbands fit tightly but not so tightly that pressure is felt. Ensure adjustable accessories and rest in case of discomfort.When to See a Healthcare Provider?If you find yourself repeatedly struggling with post-exercise headaches even after making these changes, it's time to speak with a healthcare professional. While the majority of examples can be assessed with a physical examination and medical history, additional testing such as a CT or MRI will be considered in exceptional circumstances.Pregnant women or those who have underlying medical issues should always speak with their healthcare professionals if exercise headaches persist or shift pattern.Exercise headaches are a nuisance, but they're not usually dangerous. The trick is determining your personal triggers—whether dehydration, heat, blood sugar, posture, or equipment and taking preventative measures. With a few conscious changes to your routine, you can have headache-free workouts and get back on track.

About Us

Contact Us

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Company

Health and Me is a premium website with content written and curated to function as a handbook for all Health concerns.