Connection between roller coasters and migraines or immediate head discomfort
Article: Potential Health Risks Associated with Roller Coaster Rides
Roller coasters, known for their thrilling rides and adrenaline-pumping experiences, can potentially have short-term and long-term neurological effects on riders.
In a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2017, it was found that high school students had a concussion in a sport or recreational activity, and 1 million said they had two concussions in the previous year [1]. While no direct, widespread evidence clearly establishes roller coasters as a cause, the rapid acceleration and deceleration involved in these rides theoretically could cause or exacerbate brain injuries, especially in individuals with predisposing factors or prior brain injuries [3][5].
One of the most common short-term effects experienced after riding roller coasters is headaches and migraines. These can be triggered due to motion, sensory stimuli, and stress on the brain’s pain pathways [2]. Some researchers believe that the acceleration and g-forces of roller coasters can cause a condition called subdural hemorrhage, which means bleeding between the skull and the brain [6].
Though rare, cases of concussions and subdural hematomas have been reported in connection with roller coaster rides. These injuries result from sudden forces causing brain movement inside the skull or tearing of blood vessels [4]. Adolescents are especially likely to have a concussion after riding roller coasters [1].
To help relieve headaches, a person can try drinking plenty of water, getting plenty of rest, trying to relax, taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and avoiding alcohol, skipping meals, sleeping more than usual, and straining their eyes for a long time [7]. If a person experiences any signs of health issues after riding a roller coaster, they should monitor their symptoms and speak with a doctor if they persist [8].
It is important to note that those with a history of neurological conditions or recent head trauma should consult a healthcare professional before riding roller coasters [9]. A person can develop motion sickness when their brain receives conflicting signals from their spatial orientation senses, with symptoms including nausea and possibly vomiting [10].
In general, it is recommended that individuals pay close attention to their bodies and seek medical advice if they experience any unusual symptoms after riding a roller coaster. The head movements and brain distortion that people experience when riding roller coasters can be highly individual, making it essential to listen to one's body and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
References:
- CDC Survey Shows High School Students Suffering from Concussions
- Roller Coasters and Migraines: What's the Connection?
- Roller Coasters and Brain Injuries: What You Need to Know
- Brain Strain: How Roller Coasters May Cause Concussions
- Roller Coasters and Subdural Hematomas: A Case Report
- Subdural Hemorrhage: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
- Home Remedies for Headaches After Riding a Roller Coaster
- What to Do if You Have a Headache After Riding a Roller Coaster
- Headway: Advice for People with Brain Injuries Riding Roller Coasters
- Motion Sickness: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
- Nausea and vomiting can be experienced as symptoms of motion sickness when a person's brain receives conflicting signals from their spatial orientation senses while on a roller coaster.
- Injuries such as concussions and subdural hematomas, which can result from sudden forces causing brain movement or tearing of blood vessels, have been reported in connection with roller coaster rides, particularly among adolescents.
- The rapid acceleration and deceleration involved in roller coaster rides theoretically could cause or exacerbate brain injuries, especially in individuals with predisposing factors or prior brain injuries.
- Headaches and migraines are among the most common short-term effects experienced after riding roller coasters, often due to motion, sensory stimuli, and stress on the brain’s pain pathways.
- In the realm of sports, high school students have reported a significant number of concussions in sport or recreational activities, with 1 million saying they had two concussions in the previous year, as per a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2017, although no direct evidence clearly establishes roller coasters as a cause.
