What Everyone Needs to Know About COVID Headaches
Dec 21, 2024
COVID-19, though primarily known for respiratory symptoms, affects various systems in the body. One of the less-discussed symptoms of COVID-19 is headaches. If you suffer from them, you know how persistent and troubling they can be.
COVID-related headaches can range from mild to severe and may continue well after your other symptoms have resolved. Our team at New England Institute for Neurology and Headache offers insight as to why they occur and what you can do to manage them.
COVID headaches may result from several factors, including your body’s immune response to the virus. As your immune system fights off the infection, it releases cytokines, which can cause inflammation throughout your body, including your brain’s blood vessels and nerves.
This inflammation can lead to a feeling of pressure or throbbing in your head. In addition, COVID-19 can directly affect your nervous system, potentially leading to neurological symptoms like headaches.
Many people describe COVID headaches as intense pressure around the temples or behind the eyes, sometimes accompanied by sharp, throbbing pain. For others, the pain can feel like a dull ache. In some cases, COVID headaches resemble migraines, with symptoms like sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and even visual disturbances.
COVID headaches often persist for a prolonged period. You can experience persistent headaches, even weeks or months after recovering from the initial infection – a condition usually referred to as "long COVID."
Ways to treat COVID headaches include:
Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help alleviate mild-to-moderate pain. If your headaches persist, follow dosage recommendations and consult with one of our healthcare providers.
Be sure to stay hydrated. Dehydration can worsen headaches, so do your best to get adequate fluid intake throughout the day. Also ensure you get enough sleep to help your body heal.
Excessive screen exposure can worsen headaches, especially when you're already feeling unwell. Take regular breaks and consider reducing screen time if possible.
Stress can exacerbate headache symptoms. Practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and gentle stretching can help manage stress and potentially reduce headache severity.
If you have chronic or severe headaches after COVID, reach out to our team. We can rule out other causes and may suggest medications or therapies tailored to your situation.
Although headaches are common with COVID-19, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
These symptoms could indicate a potentially serious complication.
Understanding and managing COVID headaches can help you fully recover. With proper care and attention, you can find relief and get back to feeling your best.
If you’ve had COVID and suffer from persistent headaches, let us help put an end to your pain. Contact us at New England Institute for Neurology and Headache in Stanford or Westport, Connecticut, today to book an appointment.