what does a covid headache feel like and how to get rid of covid headache?
Headaches are a common symptom of COVID-19, and they can feel similar to other types of headaches that people may be familiar with. Some people with COVID-19 report experiencing a headache that feels like a tension headache, which is characterized by a dull, aching pain in the head and neck. Others may experience a headache that feels like a sinus headache, which is characterized by pain and pressure in the forehead, cheeks, and around the eyes, and is often accompanied by nasal congestion.
It is important to note that the symptoms of COVID-19 can vary widely from person to person, and not everyone with the disease will experience a headache. Additionally, headaches can be caused by a variety of other factors, and not all headaches are caused by COVID-19.
If you are experiencing a headache and are concerned that it may be related to COVID-19, it is important to contact a healthcare provider for guidance. They may advise you to take some over-the-counter pain relievers or to stay hydrated or rest. They can also guide you to testing and next steps if necessary.
It is important to always consider the context of your symptoms and to monitor your overall health. If you have other symptoms such as fever, difficulty breathing or loss of taste or smell, it would be wise to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance on next steps.
Symptoms of a COVID-19 headache
Headaches are a common symptom of COVID-19, with studies confirming that it is one of the most prevalent neurological symptoms associated with the virus.
They often appear as the first symptom. However, it’s important to note that there are no specific characteristics of headaches caused by COVID-19 that are different from other types of headaches.
Pay attention to if the headache is more severe or occurring at unusual times, rather than being caused by typical stressors.
Many people who experience COVID-19 headaches develop tension headaches which are characterized by moderate to severe pain on both sides of the head, a pulsing or pressing feeling, pain around the forehead, sides of the head, or around the eyes, and poor response to over-the-counter medications.
About 25% of people who experience COVID-19 headaches also have migraine episodes which can occur in people without a history of migraine. Other symptoms that may be associated with COVID-19 headaches include fever, sore throat, loss of taste, loss of smell, and muscle aches.
A 2022 study found that among 288 people with COVID-19, 22.2% developed neurological symptoms, with 69.1% of those symptoms being headaches. These headaches generally last for 7 days, but in some cases they can persist for more than 30 days in 18% of people and even more than 3 months in 10% of people. In another 2022 study, researchers found that half of the 905 people who developed COVID-19 headaches experienced headaches for longer than 2 weeks.
How to treat headaches caused by COVID-19
If you have a history of headaches and looking for how to get rid of covid headache, taking steps to avoid known triggers may be beneficial in reducing the frequency of headaches. Common triggers for migraines can include alcohol and thus avoiding it may be helpful.
Managing symptoms at home can also be beneficial. here are covid headache treatment and Some remedies that may be helpful include:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Getting enough rest and sleep
- Massaging the forehead and temples
- Applying a cold compress to the forehead
In some cases, if headaches persist and don’t respond to other treatments, corticosteroids may be prescribed by a healthcare provider as a treatment option. It’s important to keep in mind that these remedies may provide temporary relief but it is always good to reach out to a healthcare provider if you are experiencing frequent or severe headaches that are affecting your daily life.
Can COVID-19 vaccines cause a headache?
Headaches are a well-known side effect of COVID-19 vaccines, they’re reported by around half of people who receive the vaccine, and typically appear within 72 hours of receiving it. Headaches and migraines can occur alone or in conjunction with other symptoms such as:
- Joint pain
- Muscle aches
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- migraine
- burning headache
It is worth mentioning that the majority of these headaches tend to be mild and usually resolve within a few days. It’s important to note that not everyone who receives the vaccine will experience headaches, and the benefits of getting vaccinated generally outweigh the potential side effects. If you have any concerns or the headaches are severe or prolonged, it’s always good to reach out to a healthcare provider for guidance.
Conclusion
Headaches are a common symptom associated with COVID-19, with tension burning headache covid being the most frequently reported. About 25% of people who experience headaches with COVID-19 also report having migraine covid episodes, and in some cases, migraine covid may develop in people with no previous history.
COVID-19 symptoms can usually be managed at home with rest, but if you experience emergency symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. It’s also important to visit your doctor if you experience long-lasting symptoms for a proper evaluation and proper management.
It’s important to note that not everyone who has COVID-19 will experience headaches, and not all headaches are caused by COVID-19. If you are experiencing a headache and are concerned that it may be related to COVID-19, it is important to contact a healthcare provider for guidance.
