Primary exertional headache: updates in the literature
Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026

3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache
Published on: June 2, 2014
Rashmi B Halker1, Bert B Vargas
1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA. halker.rashmi@mayo.edu
Abstract:
Primary exertional headache (PEH) has been recognized by the International Headache Society as a primary headache diagnosis since 1994. It is an uncommon, self-limited, and short-lasting disorder that is precipitated by exertion and is frequently comorbid with migraine. PEH shares a number of features with other headache disorders, including thunderclap headache, primary cough headache, and headache associated with sexual activity. Upon its initial occurrence, PEH requires a thorough neurologic evaluation and imaging studies to help eliminate possible underlying secondary causes, including subarachnoid hemorrhage and sentinel bleed. Although PEH is incompletely understood with regard to its epidemiology and pathophysiology, it is generally considered to be a benign disorder that is self-limited and responsive to trigger avoidance and indomethacin.
Related Concept Videos
Increased Intracranial Pressure l: Introduction
Increased Intracranial Pressure ll: Pathophysiology
Cerebral Edema l: Introduction
Cerebral Edema ll: Pathophysiology
Hemorrhagic Stroke ll: Pathophysiology
Hypertension III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

