As we make our way through this pandemic it is important to be aware of changes in our bodies and how we feel.
In addition to typical upper respiratory symptoms such as cough and runny nose, one of the most common symptoms that we see often in the media is loss of taste and smell.
A very important symptom that may be an early warning sign of COVID-19 infection is headache. In fact, it is estimated that up to 13 percent of patients with COVID-19 have headache.
The COVID-19 infection may appear in several ways. You may have a new type of headache that feels like whole-head pressure, rather than one-sided as is typical with migraines. Alternatively, you may be triggered by the infection to have worsening of your typical migraine or migraine-related symptoms. These symptoms may include dizziness, fatigue, brain fog, and numbness and tingling.
In some individuals, you may see the headache as the first symptom, prior to cough or runny nose.
Additionally, the headache or persistent migraine or migraine symptoms may persist even after COVID-19 infection has resolved.
If you have a new type of headache or you are having persistent migraine or migraine symptoms, it is important to speak to your provider.
Brooke Steiger, NP