Why Does Asthma Cause Headaches?

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By Rena Sherwood
eHow Contributing Writer

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Pollution can trigger asthma attacks and headaches.

During an asthma attack, the patient is desperately trying to get air. But after the attack is done, over the counter medication used for headache pain may also cause more headaches in an asthma patient.

Types

The main types of headaches caused by asthma include headaches suffered while wheezing and headaches caused by medications. Allergy sufferers may also suffer sinus headaches.

Significance

Headaches can be caused when a person does not have enough oxygen. The headache is one of the body's warning signs that it needs to move into an area where there is more oxygen.

Over the Counter Medication

According to New Scientist, aspirin, acetaminophen (paracetamol) and ibuprofen have been known to trigger asthma attacks.

Prescription Medication

The Merck Manual Home Edition notes that fast aching bronchodilators, used to open airways during an asthma attack, have been known to cause headaches. This is thought to be caused by the addition of ephedrine (speed), which helps make the medication act so quickly.