QUESTION: Benign Cough Headache

ANSWER: Coughing, sneezing, lifting things, or straining with a bowel movement are all actions that can bring on benign cough headache. The pain is usually located on both sides of the head, and it can last anywhere from seconds to a few minutes. Benign cough headache is most common in men, but overall, it's rare. Before the diagnosis can be made, the doctor must do an exam and run tests to exclude problems such as a tumor.