SYMPTOM
It's that head pain you get after having a good cry. This can happen because the physical act of sobbing, plus changes in blood pressure and a bit of dehydration, can really put pressure on your head.
For general awareness only. This is not medical advice. If symptoms are severe or persistent, consult a healthcare professional.
Showing 8 causes
Post-cry dehydration
Losing fluids through tears and mucus could slightly dehydrate you, reducing blood volume. This could cause a dull or throbbing headache as blood flow to the brain changes.
Facial muscle tension
Holding tension in your facial muscles, like your forehead and cheeks, while crying could lead to headaches. It feels like a tight band around your head.
Orbital muscle strain
Sustained tension in the small muscles around your eyes during crying could strain them. This often results in a dull ache behind your eyes and brow.
Vasodilation after crying
Emotional release could cause changes in blood vessel tone, which leads to dilation. This increased blood flow could sometimes trigger a throbbing headache.
Neck muscle strain
Tensing your neck and shoulder muscles to support your head during crying could cause referred pain. This results in a dull ache in the back of your head and neck.
Sinus pressure changes
Crying could increase mucus production and congestion in your sinuses. This buildup causes pressure, which leads to a dull ache in your forehead or cheeks.
Histamine release
Emotional stress and crying could sometimes prompt the release of histamine. This inflammatory chemical could cause blood vessels to expand, which leads to pain.
Overtiredness
Intense crying is exhausting and could disrupt your sleep. Lack of adequate rest could lead to a general, persistent headache.