gynecology

Continued headaches after Covid? Understand your Post Covid Headaches better!

Headaches have been recognized as a part of the COVID 19 infection. However many patients continue to experience DAILY PERSISTENT HEADACHES even after been cured of covid. These can be isolated POST COVID Headaches or as part of the long haul covid. It starts often around nasal areas and eyes and may develop in nearly half of those who had loss of smell during the infection. They are particularly disturbing and can get severely painful. They are largely NEW ONSET especially in YOUNG WOMEN. ONLY 30% HAVE PREVIOUS MIGRAINE HISTORY.

What may TRIGGER your headaches?

  • Sleep deprivation
  • Stress
  • Dehydration
  • Exposure to loud noise

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO REDUCE YOUR HEADACHES

DURING HEADACHE

  • COLD HEAD PACKS
  • OVER THE COUNTER BALMS
  • SELF MASSAGE OVER FOREHEAD, TEMPLES AND NECK
  • TYING A TIGHT CLOTH AROUND HEAD
  • AVOID NOISY ENVIRONMENT AND SITTING IN A QUIET PLACE
  • AVOID NOISY ENVIRONMENT AND SITTING IN A QUIET PLACE

TO AVOID HEADACHE EPISODES

  • PRACTICING BREATHING EXERCISES
  • TRYING YOGA (UNDER SUPERVISION)/NECK STRETCHING EXCERCISE
  • MEDITATION
  • DAILY LIGHT EXERCISE AEROBIC EXERCISE LIKE WALKING, CYCLING
  • DRINK PLENTY OF WATER DURING THE DAY
  • AVOID SKIPPING MEALS AND MAINTAIN A REGULAR HEALTHY DIET

WHEN SHOULD YOU SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP?

USUALLY THESE POST COVID HAEDACHES SUBSIDES IN DUE COURSE OF TIME. However, you must seek medical help in case you experience any of the following:

  • Worsening headaches
  • Headaches that disturb sleep
  • Increasing number of episodes during the day
  • Headaches not responding to common OTC medication
  • Associated nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, speech disturbance or weakness