Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: October 14, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Headache with Running

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Exertional headache: This is the most likely diagnosis, as it is a common condition characterized by headaches that occur during or after intense physical activity, such as running. The increased intrathoracic pressure and blood pressure during running can lead to headache.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Dehydration: Running can cause dehydration, especially if the individual does not drink enough water before, during, or after the activity. Dehydration is a common cause of headaches.
  • Tension headache: Running can lead to tension in the neck and scalp muscles, which can cause a tension headache.
  • Sinus headache: Running can cause sinus pressure and congestion, leading to a headache.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Subarachnoid hemorrhage: Although rare, a subarachnoid hemorrhage can cause a sudden, severe headache during physical activity, including running. It is essential to consider this diagnosis to avoid missing a potentially life-threatening condition.
  • Temporal arteritis: This condition can cause headaches, especially in older adults, and can be exacerbated by physical activity.
  • Pituitary apoplexy: A rare condition that can cause a sudden, severe headache, often accompanied by visual disturbances and other symptoms.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Cardiac cephalalgia: A rare condition where cardiac issues, such as coronary artery disease, cause headaches during physical activity.
  • Pharmacological headache: Certain medications, such as nitroglycerin, can cause headaches during physical activity.
  • Cervicogenic headache: A rare condition where headaches are caused by referred pain from the cervical spine, which can be exacerbated by running.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.