Brief Answer: This would not cause an aneurysm. Detailed Answer: Hi, Thank you for using Healthcare Magic. Holding your breath and straining while lifting weights can reduce the flow of blood to the brain for a short time. This is not XXXXXXX but can lead to dizziness and visual disturbances such as seeing stars as the brain, momentarily, has a reduced supply of oxygen. The effort involved in lifting weights will raise the pressure in the veins in the brain area which can cause a headache. Again, this is not serious in most people. It will not cause a brain aneurysm. However, if there is an aneurysm present already, it would not be advisable to strain excessively. I hope this is of help. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Regards, Dr K A Pottinger, MBChB FRCA

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Brief Answer: Pop sensation, not serious. Detailed Answer: Hi, Thank you for the further query. It's difficult to be sure what caused the pop sensation but the sudden rise in pressure in your head with the exertion causing the abrupt change in vision may have been perceived as a pop without any actual damage to vessels or muscles. Although disturbing at the time, I'm confident that it is not serious. Regarding breathing, I suggest you breathe out while working the muscles and inhale while you are relaxing them. Ensure good hydration before and during your workout. If you do suffer exertional headaches then neck massage or treatment by a chiropractor may help. Regards, Dr K A Pottinger

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Brief Answer: Yes, that's correct. Detailed Answer: Hi, A prolonged, severe headache accompanied by neck stiffness would be a reason to go to the ED. The headache would be on a scale of the worst headache you have ever experienced. The conditions that would need to be ruled out would be a bleed from an aneurysm or meningitis. So this is the reason I am confident you have not suffered anything serious. Regards, Dr K A Pottinger

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