A Complex Relationship - From Trigger to Treatment

Anna Awburn, a typically active 14-year-old, experienced a sudden onset of severe headaches triggered by exercise. Previously involved in sports like rowing, swimming, netball, and basketball, she was forced to abandon these activities. After swimming, she would experience intense pressure in her head, and playing netball became impossible due to vision loss.

Following various tests that ruled out a family history of brain tumors, Ms. Awburn was diagnosed with chronic persistent daily headaches, a form of chronic migraine. Like many migraine sufferers, exercise often triggered her attacks, a pattern that persisted for about 15 years. She described periods of being bedridden due to the frequency of attacks, sometimes experiencing up to 25 per month.

The impact of exercise on migraine varies greatly. While exercise can be a trigger for some, studies also suggest it can be a non-medical treatment to reduce pain frequency and intensity. One study indicated that 38% of participants reported exercise as a trigger, with attacks starting during or shortly after exercise.

Emily Cordes, an exercise physiologist who also lives with chronic migraine, has personal and professional experience with this complex relationship. Initially, exercise triggered her attacks. Now, she works with many people with migraine, emphasizing that exercise is not always the sole cause of an attack. Other factors like heat, dehydration, or low blood sugar can also play a role.

Medical research on migraine is still limited, and individual experiences vary. Ms. Cordes has found that exercise can sometimes alleviate an attack, but it's crucial to find what works for each person. She advises clients to experiment with light exercise, like walking, when pain levels are moderate. If pain is already high, rest is recommended. The key is to start slowly, find enjoyable activities, and avoid rushing the process.

Ms. Awburn has seen positive results since working with an exercise physiologist. She has noticed increased strength in her upper back and neck, and a reduction in the frequency of her attacks.