Introduction
If you’ve had Covid-19, you may have experienced the dreaded Covid headache- a persistent, throbbing pain that can linger for days or weeks. Some people describe it as intense pressure, while others describe it as a deep ache. These headaches can make recovery even more challenging, leaving people wondering, how long does COVID headaches last?
The good news? There are effective remedies to ease the discomfort. From simple at-home solutions to medical COVID headache treatments, managing a COVID headache treatment plan can help you feel better faster. This article will explore symptoms, remedies, and when to seek medical help.
What is a COVID Headache?
Did you know that around 47% of the people suffering from Covid experience a headache?
Although research has been ongoing, still the exact cause has not been identified. However, it is suggested that the trigeminal nerve gets activated. The trigeminal nerve connects your face and brain and exchanges signals between them.
These headaches can be caused by:
- Inflammation: The body’s immune response to the virus can trigger inflammation, leading to headaches.
- Dehydration: Fever, sweating, and lack of appetite can contribute to dehydration, a major headache trigger.
- Stress and fatigue: COVID-19 can cause severe fatigue, which often worsens headaches.
- Sinus congestion: In some cases, congestion and sinus pressure from the virus can lead to headaches, especially around the eyes and forehead.
COVID headaches are more common in younger people and those with a history of migraines or other headaches. They are also more prevalent in COVID-19 patients who experience loss of taste or smell.
Symptoms of a COVID Headache
COVID headaches share some similarities with migraines or tension headaches, but they often come with additional symptoms:
Common Characteristics-What Does a COVID Headache Feel Like: H3
- Throbbing, pulsating, or pressure-like pain
- Pain behind the eyes or forehead
- COVID headache back of head pressure
- Sensitivity to light or noise
How Long Does COVID Headache Last?
The duration of a COVID headache varies. Some people experience relief within a few days, while others deal with headaches for weeks or even months as part of long COVID.
- Mild cases: Headaches last 1-3 days.
- Moderate cases: Symptoms persist for up to two weeks.
- Long COVID cases: Headaches can linger for months.
If your COVID headache treatment isn’t working and the pain persists beyond two weeks, it may be time to consult a doctor. The physician first needs to identify the difference between COVID-19, flu, and RSV, as their symptoms are similar. Then on, they can help find a potent treatment.
Remedies for COVID Headaches
Covid headache relief requires a combination of home remedies, medications, and lifestyle adjustments. Here’s what works best:
Home Remedies:
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is a major trigger for headaches. Drinking at least 8–10 glasses of water daily can help reduce headache severity. Adding electrolytes or coconut water may also help restore lost minerals.
Prioritize Rest
COVID-19 puts immense stress on the body. Sleeping at least 7-9 hours per night and taking breaks throughout the day can support recovery.
Cold or Warm Compress
Cold compress: Reduces inflammation and numbs pain.
Warm compress: Relaxes tight muscles and improves circulation.
Caffeine and Herbal Teas
A small amount of caffeine can enhance blood flow and ease headaches. Herbal teas like peppermint and ginger also have anti-inflammatory benefits.
The Over-the-Counter Drugs:
Over-the-counter pain medications can be helpful when natural therapies are insufficient.
- Tylenol, or acetaminophen, works well for mild to severe pain.
- Both Naproxen (Aleve) and Ibuprofen (Advil) reduce inflammation, but they should be used with caution.
- Aspirin May be beneficial, but if bleeding problems are possible, it should be avoided.
Consult a healthcare professional about the best COVID headache treatment for your symptoms if you’re not sure which drug to take.
Lifestyle Adjustments:
Dietary Considerations
Eat anti-inflammatory foods like berries, leafy greens, and salmon.
Avoid processed foods, sugar, and alcohol, which can worsen headaches.
Stress Management
Try meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga to relieve tension.
Reduce screen time to avoid digital eye strain.
Light Movement
Although rest is essential, light movements such as stretching or short walks can improve circulation and help reduce headache intensity.
When to See a Doctor?
Although Covid headaches get better with home remedies and medications, some symptoms require extra care and action.
Warning Signs:
- Severe, sudden headaches
- Vision problems or confusion
- Persistent headaches lasting over a month
- Neck stiffness or difficulty speaking
If your COVID headache treatment isn’t working, a doctor may prescribe:
Stronger pain medications:
- Steroids to reduce inflammation
- Physical therapy for post-COVID recovery
Don’t be afraid to get help if you need it because ignoring chronic headaches can result in long-term neurological problems.
What are the Most Important Facts to Know About COVID Headaches?
If you are suffering from COVID-19 infection, you are likely to have a COVID-19 headache, in addition to loss of smell and taste. The majority of COVID headache instances occur during the acute stage of the infection and go away on their own in a few days, along with the other symptoms. However, in certain instances, the COVID headache may become chronic and last, contributing to the long-COVID syndrome or post-COVID-19 syndrome. The management of a COVID headache involves the use of analgesic drugs, rest, and hydration. For chronic headaches, preventative drugs or injections of botulinum toxin may be utilized.
COVID Headache Treatment
The management of COVID-related headaches is similar to that of other primary headaches, such as migraines or tension headaches. In most cases, these headaches subside on their own within a few days, and pain relief is typically achieved with analgesics like acetaminophen or NSAIDs. Additional supportive measures include getting adequate rest, staying well-hydrated, limiting caffeine intake, and maintaining healthy sleep habits.
Long COVID headaches, however, may manifest as an exacerbation of a preexisting headache disorder or as a new headache that develops during or after the acute phase of infection. In some cases, these headaches can persist for weeks or even months beyond the initial illness. When this occurs, it is important to rule out other potential causes and evaluate the headache’s characteristics and frequency.
COVID headache treatment may include preventive medications such as tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) or anti-seizure drugs like valproate. If these prove ineffective, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections in the head and neck muscles can help by blocking neurotransmitter release from the trigeminal sensory nerve, thereby reducing pain. Additionally, some evidence suggests that glucocorticoids may offer therapeutic benefits for managing long COVID headaches. Moreover, clinical trials are ongoing to help find a better cure.
COVID Headache Prevention Tips
While COVID headaches aren’t always preventable, you can take steps to reduce your risk.
1. Stay Up to Date with Vaccines
Vaccination can lower the severity of symptoms, including headaches.
2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Stay hydrated and eat nutrient-dense foods.
Get enough sleep and manage stress.
3. Listen to Your Body
If you’re feeling unwell, prioritize rest. Overexertion can prolong headaches and other symptoms.
You can minimize the impact of COVID-19 headaches and recover faster by following these simple tips.
Conclusion
To conclude, COVID headaches can be frustrating and disruptive, but the right COVID headache treatment can make a difference. Managing your symptoms effectively can help you feel better, whether it’s staying hydrated, getting enough rest, or using OTC medications.
If you’re wondering, how long does COVID headache last? Remember that duration varies. Some people recover quickly, while others experience COVID headache back of head pain for weeks or months. However, the good news is that there are COVID-19 vaccine trials ongoing to help find a better cure. Koch Research aims to make it accessible and prevent any such pandemic from happening shortly.
