When you cough, the sudden and forceful expulsion of air from the lungs against the closed vocal cord increases the pressure inside the chest, abdomen and brain. This increased pressure in the brain is termed as “intracranial hypertension” and can lead to discomfort and pain in the head.
Cough-induced headaches are often described as sharp and stabbing. It occurs suddenly and can last from a few seconds to minutes. Typically, the headaches are felt on both sides of the head and can be quite intense. And in some cases, the pain may radiate into the neck and shoulder.
Cough headaches can be divided into primary and secondary cough headaches. Primary cough headaches are headaches that are not caused by an underlying condition, whereas secondary cough headaches are caused by an underlying issue such as a brain tumour, an infection or other structural abnormalities in the brain. For this reason, it is important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience frequent cough headaches to rule out a serious underlying condition
Apart from headache when coughing, you may also experience dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting during cough headaches. This is because the sudden rise in brain pressure can temporarily reduce the blood flow in the brain.
To manage cough headaches, it is important to first exclude any serious underlying cause. Once these are excluded, treatment of the cause is important. This may involve treating any underlying respiratory infections, allergies or other conditions that trigger coughing. Staying hydrated, using a humidifier and avoiding environmental triggers (e.g. smoke and strong odours) can help to reduce coughing and headaches.
At Alleviate Pain Clinic, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of headache disorders. Our team provides comprehensive care for various headache disorders including migraines, cough headaches, tension headaches, cluster headaches and more. We offer a range of diagnostic services including advanced imaging techniques. Don’t let your headaches control your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a headache-free future.
