Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of Covid infection. They are also often an accompanying symptom of other viral diseases. They usually develop as a result of a viral infection parallel to the viral infection: If the condition of those affected worsens, for example at the beginning of a flu-like infection, the headaches increase and then go away again as the recovery progresses. Anyone who has survived the infection is usually free of headaches.
It is different with Covid-19: Here the headaches can last longer, as a study shows. In up to 45 percent of those affected, the pain persists even after the acute infection. 60 days after the acute viral illness, 16.5 percent were still suffering from headaches, 10.6 percent after 90 days, and 8.4 percent after six months.
Daily Complaints
The individual level of suffering is usually high. 61 percent of those affected by headaches after a Covid-19 infection suffer from daily complaints. Women are affected more often than men. Those who had a headache as the first symptom of Covid-19 and people who are generally prone to headaches also have a higher risk of persistent headaches.
Many people turn to painkillers to treat headaches. Although over-the-counter headache relievers work relatively well for Covid-19-related headaches, they are problematic for two reasons: First, it is known that SARS-CoV-2 also attacks the kidneys, which is why you should be careful with certain painkillers. These are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which include ibuprofen. In rare cases, these preparations can damage the kidneys if taken for a long time.
Vicious circle of drugs
The second danger is that with daily headaches over a longer period of time, daily intake becomes normal. However: Daily intake can lead to a vicious circle – headache tablets taken too frequently can trigger headaches and thus lead to the symptoms becoming chronic.
Medication Overuse Headache is when headaches occur more than 15 days per month and are treated with one or more painkillers over a period of more than three months.
“People with headaches that have lasted for weeks or even months after contracting COVID-19 should therefore use headache tablets sparingly so as not to get caught up in the ‘hamster wheel’ of drug-induced headaches,” advises Peter Berlit, Secretary General of the German Society for Neurology. “Of course, that’s easier said than done, but it’s definitely worth trying out non-drug strategies as well. The portfolio ranges from exercise in the fresh air to relaxation techniques and stress reduction. In severe cases, a neurologist who specializes in headaches should be consulted.”