Putting a wet washcloth in cold water at the nape of the neck and lying down comfortably in bed are natural strategies that help combat the headache caused by sex.
The headache that arises during intercourse is called orgasmic headache, and although it more affects men who already suffer from migraines, women may also be affected.
It is not yet known exactly why this pain appears but the theory more accepted is that this happens because during the intimate contact the muscles contract and the energy released during the sexual act increases the width of the blood vessels inside the brain, which can cause changes such as an aneurysm or stroke, for example.
How to recognize the symptoms
Orgasmic headache arises especially during orgasm, but may also occur a few moments before or after the climax. The pain arises suddenly and mainly affects the back of the head and the neck, with a feeling of weight. Some people report that they feel very sleepy when this pain appears.
How is the treatment done?
The treatment for headache that comes after sex is done with the use of analgesics like Paracetamol but sleeping in a dark place also helps to rest and have a deeper and more restorative sleep, and the person wakes up well and without pain. A cold compress on the back of the neck is also usually effective in relieving discomfort.
Orgasmic headache is a rare disease, and even those affected have this condition, only 1 or 2 times in their lifetime. However, there are reports of people having this type of headache in almost all sexual intercourse, in which case one should seek medical help to start treatment with the use of medicines.
When to go to the doctor
Headache that occurs during or shortly after sex usually goes by in a few minutes or a few hours, but it may be appropriate to seek medical help when:
- The headache is very intense or arises frequently;
- The headache does not stop with painkillers, and does not improve with a good night's sleep;
- The headache generates a migraine, which manifests with intense pain located in another part of the head that is not the nape of the neck.
In that case the doctor may order tests such as brain scan to check if the blood vessels in the brain are normal or if there is a ruptured hemorrhagic aneurysm or stroke, for example.
How to avoid headache caused by orgasm
For those who suffer with this type of headache frequently, the best way to avoid this type of discomfort is not to have sex, but since this may not be an option, the neurologist may prescribe migraine remedies to prevent the onset of pain. These remedies may need to be taken daily for about 1 month to then assess whether they had the expected effect or whether to replace the remedies with others.
Other strategies that also contribute to successful treatment and cure of orgasmic headache are good lifestyle habits like sleeping and resting properly, doing regular exercise and eating well, eating lean meats, eggs, dairy, vegetables, vegetables, grains and cereals, reducing consumption of processed, high-fat foods, sugar and food additives.
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