Headache and Coronavirus

COVID-19 can cause headache alongside fever, cough, fatigue or a general feeling of being unwell. Some people have respiratory symptoms, while others notice mainly whole-body or head symptoms. A headache is not specific to COVID-19; dehydration, another viral illness, poor sleep and migraine can feel similar. The timing of exposure, other symptoms and local testing guidance help shape the next step. Symptoms may change over the course of an illness, so note whether breathing, alertness or ability to drink is getting worse.

Rest, drink fluids regularly and use a thermometer if you feel feverish. Follow current local advice about testing, staying away from others and returning to normal activities. Keep a record of when the headache began and any fever, cough, fatigue or breathing change. A pharmacist can advise on a suitable pain or fever medicine after checking your age, medicines, pregnancy status and health conditions. Avoid taking more than the label or clinician advises. If symptoms continue or worsen, arrange medical advice and mention any exposure or positive test.

Seek urgent medical help for difficulty breathing, chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to stay awake, fainting, blue or grey lips, or inability to keep fluids down. A sudden severe headache, new weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, seizure, stiff neck or vision loss also needs urgent assessment. Contact a clinician if fever or headache persists, symptoms worsen after initial improvement, or you have a health condition that raises your risk from infection. COVID-19 can sometimes affect the lungs, including through pneumonia, so breathing changes should not be dismissed as an ordinary headache.

Do my symptoms warrant a COVID-19 test or another assessment? How should I manage the headache with my current medicines? What changes in breathing or alertness should prompt urgent help? When is it safe to resume close contact with other people?