Do you still get headaches after getting COVID? Let's talk about COVID Headache

With the Covid-19 pandemic, we have all faced a lot of new experiences, haven't we? Among these, one of the main symptoms that many people have when they get Covid is a headache. In fact, surveys say that about one in two people who get Covid get this headache. For some, there have been cases where the only symptom was a headache, without anything else like a fever or cough. So today, let's talk about what this Covid headache is, how is it different from a normal headache, and what can be done about it.

What exactly is this COVID Headache?

Simply put, a Covid headache is a headache that occurs as a symptom of the coronavirus entering your body. This is usually one of the first symptoms to appear.

Scientists are still trying to figure out what exactly causes these headaches. But current research suggests that the pain is caused by the Covid virus stimulating the trigeminal nerve, a major nerve that carries sensations from our face to the brain. This nerve is what helps our face feel things like pain and touch.

Also, younger people, those with pre-existing conditions like migraines, are more likely to develop COVID headaches. These headaches are also common in people who lose their sense of smell and taste after contracting COVID.

'Long COVID' headache

There's something else we need to talk about here. That's what's called 'Long COVID.' Sometimes, even after COVID has cleared up, headaches can persist for weeks, months, or even years. This is what we call a 'Long COVID' headache. You can get COVID very simply, meaning without major symptoms, but you can still get these long-term headaches. For some people, this pain can be intermittent and ongoing.

How does this headache feel?

Covid headaches can usually range from moderate to severe. Many people experience a feeling of tightness in their head, like a belt being tied around their neck. However, this can vary from person to person.

You may experience pain on both sides of your head or in the forehead area. This pain may also increase when you shake your head, twist your neck, cough, or engage in any physical activity.

Let's see how this compares to common types of headaches.

How long does a Covid headache last?

Like other COVID symptoms like fever, cough, and sore throat, headaches usually improve within a few days. One study found that COVID headaches last about 4 days.

How do you know for sure if your headache is due to Covid?

If you have a headache and suspect you have COVID, the first thing to do is get a COVID-19 test. If your test is positive, talk to your doctor about your symptoms.

Your doctor can help you determine whether your headache is due to COVID or something else, as these symptoms are very similar to a regular headache.

If you continue to have headaches even after COVID is gone, it's definitely something you should see a doctor about. He or she will examine you and ask about your medical history. For example, if you had frequent headaches before COVID, what the nature of the pain was, and how often it occurred. They will also ask if you have other symptoms, such as loss of taste and smell, as these symptoms can occur with a 'Long COVID' headache.

What can be done to treat this headache?

Treatment for Covid headaches is very similar to treatment for other headaches.

Common treatments and things you can do at home

• Painkillers: You can use an over-the-counter painkiller like Acetaminophen or an NSAID like Ibuprofen . But remember one very important thing. Do not continue to use these painkillers for more than a week. Doing so can cause a new headache (rebound headache) caused by the medication. So if your headache persists, be sure to see your doctor.
• Rest: Get plenty of rest. Don't overexert yourself.
• Sleep: Get enough good sleep.
• Fluids: Drink plenty of water and fluids.
• Reducing Caffeine: Reducing caffeine-containing beverages like coffee and tea can also help.

Treatment for 'Long COVID' headaches

If you have a long-term COVID headache, the treatment your doctor prescribes may vary depending on your symptoms.

• If your headache is similar to a tension headache, you may be prescribed a treatment that contains painkillers and possibly caffeine.
• If the symptoms are similar to migraine, specific medications such as injectable prochlorperazine and metoclopramide may be prescribed.
• In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications, such as antidepressants and anti-seizure medications, as long-term headache prevention treatments.

Can Covid headaches be prevented?

Getting vaccinated can help prevent you from getting infected and reduce your risk of developing long-term symptoms if you do get infected. Research has shown that people who have not been vaccinated against COVID are at higher risk of developing 'Long COVID' symptoms.