If you have not usually been prone to headaches and notice that you are having them more lately, this is enough reason to consider whether or not it is a COVID headache. The concern is even higher as we continue to deal with COVID-19 continuing to be a factor in our lives.
Are headaches a sign of COVID?
Headaches can be typical conditions for many, whether they are associated with allergies, stress, lack of sleep, eye strain, or many other common causes. Due to this, headaches may be overlooked and not taken as seriously as they should.
Although not mentioned as much as the loss of smell and taste, headaches can also be early symptoms of COVID-19 for all age groups, with headaches being less common in children.
The headaches tend to start at the beginning of the illness.
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Data and research continue to determine why headaches are a cause of COVID, but like any other respiratory infection, the link between headaches and COVID is not that uncommon. Some medical specialists suggest that another theory maybe that fluid enters around the brain, possibly triggering a headache in COVID patients.
In addition, dehydration or hunger as a result of eating and drinking habits changing while dealing with COVID can be culprits. Persistent headaches also appear to occur in those who have previously had COVID, also known as post-COVID headaches.
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What does a COVID headache feel like?
A COVID headache, particularly during what is known as the initial phase of the infection, can trigger what feels like a migraine or tension headache. The pain can range from moderate to severe.
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Other ways to describe how a COVID headache feels include a feeling of pressing, pulsing, or stabbing.
COVID headache symptoms
Those who have experienced COVID have experienced headache pain and discomfort anywhere from a few days to weeks and months.COVID headaches all are more likely to occur with other symptoms, such as the common loss of smell and fatigue. Other symptoms along with headaches include:
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Muscle or body aches/pains
- Nausea or vomiting
- New loss of taste or smell
- Persistent cough
- Runny nose or congestion
- Shortness of breath
- Sore throat
COVID headache location
A COVID headache can take place in various locations, depending on the person and case.
As mentioned earlier, a COVID headache can sometimes be similar to a migraine, the discomfort could be unilateral in the head with throbbing and a sensitivity to sound or light.
The discomfort and pain of the headache can also take place bilaterally across both sides of the head.
Other reports have mentioned the pain taking over the whole head with severe pressure and pain.
In other cases, the discomfort and pain can extend to the face.
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COVID headache relief
There has been much confusion on what can be taken for relief, as reports vary – some have said that certain medications can make COVID worse in a person, or some medications do not do anything to relieve COVID headache pain.
Later reports showed that these claims were not true. Also, regular painkillers are okay to use and may indeed help with COVID headaches.
Suggested medications for your headache pain include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin, naproxen, or paracetamol.
Most importantly, seeking urgent medical care and attention is recommended, especially if you are also having breathing issues, feelings of confusion, and other symptoms with your headaches.
If the headaches worsen and persist, do not hesitate to get yourself tested for COVID-19. There are also at-home tests available if there is concern about social distancing and going to a hospital or other location where tests are administered.
Continue to mask up, social distance, stay hydrated, and stay safe!
