A headache is one of the most frequently reported neurological symptoms associated with the COVID-19 infection. This symptom often appears rapidly. Understanding the specific characteristics of this pain, how long it typically lasts, and the effective methods for finding relief is important for managing the acute phase of the illness. This information also helps in recognizing when a headache may signal a transition to a more persistent, chronic condition.
Defining the COVID-19 Headache
The headache experienced during a COVID-19 infection is often characterized by a moderate-to-severe intensity, which can be disruptive to daily life. Many people describe the sensation as a deep pressure or a tightening band across the head, similar to a severe tension-type headache. The pain is frequently bilateral, affecting both sides of the head, and may be centered around the forehead or behind the eyes.
For some individuals, the headache takes on a throbbing or pulsating quality, resembling a migraine episode. This type of pain is often accompanied by increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) and an aversion to loud noises (phonophobia). The pain is thought to be caused by the body’s systemic inflammatory response to the virus, which involves the release of pro-inflammatory molecules called cytokines.
These inflammatory signals can affect blood vessels and potentially activate the trigeminovascular system, which plays a role in headache disorders. A defining feature for some is that the pain can be unusually resistant to standard over-the-counter pain medications, making it feel more persistent than a typical headache. The headache is also usually accompanied by other systemic symptoms of the viral infection, such as fever, fatigue, or body aches.
Progression and Duration
For most people, the COVID-19 headache presents early in the course of the acute infection. During this acute phase, the headache typically lasts only a few days, often resolving completely within a week, as the rest of the viral symptoms begin to subside. Some studies suggest an average acute duration of approximately four to seven days for this symptom.
However, the headache can transition into a long-term issue, becoming a component of Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, commonly referred to as Long COVID. In these cases, the headache can persist for weeks or even months after the initial infection has cleared. This persistent headache may feel like a new daily persistent headache, where the pain is present around the clock.
Individuals who experience a headache during the acute phase of the infection may have a higher likelihood of developing this long-term condition. It is one of the most common neurological issues reported by long-haulers. The severity of the headache during the initial illness has also been linked to a higher risk of the headache becoming a chronic symptom.
Strategies for Pain Relief
The management of a COVID-19 headache involves both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical approaches, mirroring standard headache relief strategies. Over-the-counter medications are the typical first line of defense against the moderate-to-severe pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen, and acetaminophen, are generally considered safe and effective for alleviating the pain during the acute phase.
Beyond medication, several non-pharmacological interventions can help reduce the severity of the pain. Maintaining adequate hydration is important, as dehydration can exacerbate headache symptoms. Rest and sleep are also necessary, as the body requires energy to fight the infection and heal.
Applying a cool compress to the forehead or temples may help to soothe the pain, and minimizing exposure to triggers like bright lights or loud noises can prevent the throbbing sensation from worsening. If the headache is severe, persistent, or fails to respond to these common remedies, a healthcare provider may need to be consulted to discuss prescription treatment options. It is important to recognize specific symptoms that require immediate medical attention, as they can indicate a more serious complication. A sudden, severe headache described as the “worst ever,” or one accompanied by a stiff neck, confusion, weakness, or difficulty speaking, should prompt an immediate medical evaluation.