COVID-19 Headaches — Why They Happen and How to Get Rid of Them

COVID-19, the illness caused by SARS-CoV-2, can lead to many different symptoms, including headaches. Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of COVID, with 1 in 4 people experiencing headaches during their illness. 

COVID can trigger headaches that come and go for weeks and even months. If you’ve been experiencing headaches related to COVID, here are some helpful tips about how to manage them.

What does a COVID headache feel like?

COVID illness can trigger tension headaches, cluster headaches, and migraines. So, a COVID headache can feel like:

• Dull, pressure-like pain anywhere on the head

• A tight band around the head

• Pain that’s worse around the scalp, temples, or back of the neck

• Burning or stabbing pain on one side of the head

• Throbbing or pulsing head pain

One study showed that people with COVID most often experience headache symptoms in these locations:

• In the front of their head

• Behind their eyes

• Near their temples

Why does COVID cause headaches?

It’s not clear why COVID triggers headaches. But scientists believe it may be linked to the virus’s ability to cause: 

• Inflammation around the brain and inside the brain

• Inflammation of the blood vessels throughout the body (including the brain)

• Dehydration and fever 

• Irritation of the trigeminal nerve 

All of these changes can trigger headaches. But it’s not clear which of these changes triggers headaches. It’s also not clear why only some people develop headaches when they’re sick with COVID. 

Research shows that the SARS-CoV-2 virus is twice as likely to cause headaches as other respiratory viruses. But researchers don’t know yet why the virus causes headaches more often. And it’s not just during the initial COVID-19 illness that people experience headaches. Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of long COVID (or post-COVID-19 syndrome). About 10% of people with long COVID develop post-COVID headaches. 

How long do COVID headaches last?

Headaches from COVID usually last 10 to 14 days. But people can still experience headaches even after they recover. One study found that more than half of people continued having COVID-related symptoms up to 6 months after their illness. And one of the most common symptoms is headaches. 

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Headaches after COVID

Many people experience long-lasting headaches if they develop long COVID. Headaches usually come and go. Many people who develop these headaches didn’t have chronic headaches before getting sick with COVID. But others did have headaches in the past, and the headaches get worse with long COVID. 

Right now, it’s not clear how long headaches due to long COVID last. But according to experts, most people can expect symptoms to last for 6 months or longer. Luckily, many people experience headache relief when they receive treatment. Many medications that treat headache syndrome also help relieve headaches from long COVID. 

How do you get rid of a COVID headache?

If you’re having headaches while you’re sick with COVID, there are several remedies you can try.

Take over-the-counter pain relievers 

It’s safe to take both ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) for COVID symptoms, including headaches. Make sure to follow dose guidelines on the package or talk with a healthcare professional about the best dose for you.

Stay hydrated 

Dehydration can lead to headaches. You can become dehydrated easily when you’re sick, especially if you have a fever. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to stay hydrated.

Try a warm or cool compress 

If you’re having tension headaches, a warm or cool compress can help. Apply a compress to your neck for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Talk with a healthcare professional about prescription medication 

There are prescription medications for migraine and cluster headaches. Your primary care provider can prescribe medications if you have new migraines and cluster headaches. They can also adjust your treatment plan if you have a history of a headache syndrome and your headaches are getting worse while you’re sick with COVID. 

Mind and body practices

Gentle practices like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can reduce headache intensity and help you cope with pain. Even short sessions can make a difference.

Limit screen time

Too much screen time on your phone, tablet, or computer can worsen headaches, especially if your eyes are strained or you’re already feeling unwell. Take breaks, dim your screens, and adjust lighting when possible.

Rest in a quiet, dark room

Sometimes, the simplest approach works best. Lying down in a quiet, dark space can reduce the intensity of COVID-related headaches, particularly migraines.

Caffeine in moderation

A small amount of caffeine — like in coffee or tea — can sometimes help relieve headache pain, especially tension headaches or migraines. But too much caffeine can actually trigger or worsen headaches, so moderation is key.

Sleep hygiene

Ensuring adequate rest and following sleep hygiene tips can go a long way in helping you to feel better. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule supports your body’s recovery and can reduce headache intensity.

When should you get medical care for COVID headaches?

Keep in mind that there are many causes of headaches, and certain types of headaches can be a sign of a serious medical condition. If you’re not sure whether your headache could be a sign of something more serious, get immediate medical attention.

Some signs that your headache could be something more serious include:

• High fever

• Neck stiffness

• Pain with neck movement

• Sudden onset or thunderclap headache

• Confusion

• Sleepiness

• Weakness or trouble moving your limbs

• Slurred speech or trouble speaking

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Written by:

Ashely Alker, MD, MSc

Ashely Alker, MD, MSc is an emergency medicine physician and nationally published writer and speaker who focuses on patient education through media and healthcare policy.

Edited by:

Karla Robinson, MD

Karla Robinson, MD, is a medical editor for GoodRx. She is a licensed, board-certified family physician with almost 20 years of experience in health through varied clinical, administrative, and educational roles.

Reviewed by:

Farzon A. Nahvi, MD

Farzon Nahvi, MD, is an emergency medicine physician and author of “Code Gray: Death, Life, and Uncertainty in the ER.” He works at Concord Hospital in Concord, New Hampshire, and teaches at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth.

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