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Exertional headache is triggered by physical exertion — during or after exercise. Most cases are benign but secondary causes must be excluded.
Quick Answer
Exertional headache is triggered by physical exertion — during or after exercise. Most cases are benign but secondary causes must be excluded. Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav (NMC 8029, 15+ years of clinical experience) evaluates exertional headache at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center, 117 Lal Durbar Marg, Kathmandu, Bagmati Province 44600, Nepal — evidence-based, medically reviewed.
Exertional headache is a headache triggered by physical exertion — occurring during or after exercise, straining, coughing or sexual activity. Most cases are primary exertional headache (benign), but secondary causes must always be excluded.
Triggered by exercise, straining, coughing, sexual activity
Unknown in primary exertional headache
Management is individualized and discussed with benefits, limitations, and follow-up.
Exertion can trigger secondary causes (dissection, hemorrhage)
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Reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • Last reviewed: 2026-11-10
Authoritative external references:
Content is educational and aligns with standard medical references; individual evaluation may vary. External links provide context and do not imply endorsement.
Doctor — medically reviewed
Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav
Consultant Neurologist & Headache Specialist • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), FICN (Neurology), FCNV, FIHM • NMC 8029
This condition guide was medically reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav.
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