Headaches During Erection: Causes and Seeking Help

Headache accompanying an erection?

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask, recently for the past half month, I often experience headaches and elevated blood pressure (up to 155/95) during erections (which are normal), despite having no previous history of hypertension.
I visited a family medicine clinic, and they only prescribed muscle relaxants and medications for peripheral circulation (as I have had neck surgery before, making me more prone to stiffness).
Earlier this month, I underwent extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for kidney stones, and during a follow-up two weeks later, there was still one stone in the kidney, which is scheduled to be treated again next month.
Recently, my blood pressure readings have generally been normal, around 125/85, but whenever I engage in sexual activity and have an erection, I experience headaches and my blood pressure rises.
What could be the cause of this? Which specialist should I consult? Thank you.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/31

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, during an erection, a higher blood pressure is indeed required to maintain the erect state.
As for the headache, it may be caused by high blood pressure.
This could be due to vascular stiffness and insufficient elasticity, leading to the need for higher blood pressure during an erection.
It is advisable to consult a cardiologist.
If there are any concerns, you may want to undergo further detailed examinations at a medical center.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/08/31

More Info

Headaches during erection can be a concerning symptom, and it's important to understand the potential causes and seek appropriate medical advice. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing headaches that coincide with sexual arousal and erection, along with elevated blood pressure readings during these episodes.
There are several potential explanations for your symptoms. One possibility is that the headaches could be related to increased intracranial pressure or vascular changes that occur during sexual arousal. Sexual activity can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure, which may trigger headaches in individuals who are predisposed to them. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as "coital cephalalgia," a type of headache that can occur during sexual activity, particularly during orgasm.

Another factor to consider is your history of neck surgery and the potential for muscle tension or stiffness in the neck and shoulders, which can contribute to headaches. The use of muscle relaxants and medications for peripheral circulation may help alleviate some of the tension, but they may not address the underlying issue if it is related to sexual activity.

Additionally, your recent history of kidney stones and the associated treatments may also play a role in your overall health and how your body responds to stressors, including sexual activity. While your blood pressure readings have been mostly normal, the spikes during sexual arousal could indicate a physiological response that needs further evaluation.

Given these factors, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in neurology or urology. A neurologist can help assess whether your headaches are indeed related to sexual activity or if there are other underlying neurological issues that need to be addressed. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to rule out any structural abnormalities in the brain that could be contributing to your symptoms.

On the other hand, a urologist can evaluate any potential connections between your sexual health and the headaches. They can also assess your kidney health and any implications from your previous treatments for kidney stones.
In the meantime, it may be beneficial to keep a headache diary, noting the frequency, duration, and intensity of your headaches, as well as any associated symptoms and your blood pressure readings during these episodes. This information can provide valuable insights for your healthcare provider.

In summary, headaches during erection can have multiple causes, including vascular changes, muscle tension, and underlying health conditions. Seeking evaluation from a neurologist or urologist will help you determine the appropriate course of action and treatment options. It's essential to address these symptoms promptly to ensure your overall health and well-being.

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