Covid-19 Headache Remedy Effectively Manage Headaches During the COVID-19 Pandemic

 

 Table of Contents

- [Introduction to Headaches During the COVID-19 Pandemic]

- [Understanding Headaches Related to COVID-19]

- [Lifestyle Modifications to Prevent COVID Headaches]

  - [Getting More Restorative Sleep]

  - [Incorporating Regular Exercise]

  - [Staying Properly Hydrated]

  - [Managing Stress with Healthy Strategies]

  - [Avoiding Food Triggers]

  - [Limiting Alcohol Consumption]

  - [Taking Screen Breaks]

  - [Creating a Consistent Routine]

- [Over-the-Counter Medication Options for Headache Relief]

  - [Acetaminophen]

  - [Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)]

  - [Combination Analgesics]

- [Natural and Holistic Treatments for Headaches]

  - [Peppermint Essential Oil]

  - [Ginger Root]

  - [Feverfew]

  - [Magnesium Supplements]

  - [Coenzyme Q10]

  - [Staying Hydrated]

  - [Willow Bark]

  - [Butterbur Root]

  - [Caffeine]

  - [Tiger Balm]

- [Seeking Medical Care for Severe Headaches]

- [Tracking and Identifying Headache Triggers]

- [Techniques to Activate the Relaxation Response]

  - [Diaphragmatic Breathing]

  - [Body Scans and Progressive Muscle Relaxation]

  - [Visualization and Guided Imagery ]

  - [Mindfulness Meditation]

  - [Yoga and Stretching]

  - [Listening to Calming Music]

  - [Aromatherapy]

  - [Acupressure and Acupuncture]

- [Creating a Headache-Preventive Environment]

- [Helpful Tips for Headache Prevention]

- [Conclusion]

- [FAQs]

 

 Introduction to Headaches During the COVID-19 Pandemic

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an drastic increase in headaches and migraines for many individuals due to increased stress, changes in daily routine, social isolation, and other factors unique to the coronavirus crisis. Finding effective remedies and treatments for headache relief during the pandemic that are also safe and do not require leaving home can be extremely challenging.

 

This comprehensive guide covers a wide array of proven techniques, lifestyle modifications, over-the-counter medications, and natural holistic therapies that can help treat and alleviate headache pain, symptoms, and frequency during the COVID-19 pandemic without the need to take risky trips out of the home. Implementing positive lifestyle changes, managing and avoiding triggers, using accessible medication options responsibly, and employing natural stress relief techniques can go a long way towards gaining control over headaches during these uncertain times.

 

While living through a pandemic presents unique struggles, having the right remedies and treatments readily available along with a preventative approach can minimize headaches and restore normalcy despite the stresses and changes brought on by COVID-19. Read on for tips to safely, naturally, and effectively manage headaches during the coronavirus pandemic.

 

 Understanding Headaches Related to COVID-19

 

In order to successfully treat and minimize headaches during these challenging times, it is important to understand why and how the COVID-19 crisis can directly cause or worsen headache pain, frequency, and associated symptoms. There are several key factors related directly to the pandemic that can trigger headaches or migraines:

 

Increased Stress Levels - The uncertainty, social isolation, anxiety, work/life balance changes, and general worry and fear caused by the pandemic can significantly increase stress hormones like cortisol. This sends the body into fight-or-flight mode, tensing muscles and affecting nerves which commonly results in tension headaches or migraines. Stress can also lower the body's pain threshold, making headaches feel more painful.

 

Disruptions to Normal Routines - The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many people to stay home, leading to disruptions in normal sleep patterns, eating habits, exercise routines, work schedules, social connections, and other daily lifestyle factors. These sudden changes upset normalcy and the consistency that our bodies and minds thrive on. Fluctuations in routines, particularly sleep and meals, are a very common headache trigger.

 

Increased Screen Time - Mandated quarantines and remote work mean most interactions, tasks, entertainment, and communication have shifted online increasing screen time exponentially. Extended computer, phone, and TV viewing strains eyes and commonly causes headaches. Bright LED lights and constant exposure to screens disrupt natural circadian rhythms.

 

Social Isolation - Quarantines and physical distancing necessities during the pandemic have led to increased loneliness and isolation for many. Less social interaction and communication can take a mental toll and elevate stress, anxiety, and depression - all linked to headaches.

 

Dehydration - Staying home more means less time out and about leading to decreased water intake and dehydration, a common cause of headaches. Changes in sleep and eating patterns can also reduce hydration. Alcohol intake may increase during quarantine as well, further dehydrating the body.

 

Medication Overuse Headaches - The combination of pandemic stress and more frequent headaches means many turn to over-the-counter or prescription painkillers for relief more often. This pattern of overusing analgesics can cause "rebound headaches" and medication overuse headaches.

 

Gaining a deeper insight into the mechanisms of how the COVID-19 crisis and its effects on daily life and normal routines can directly trigger problematic headaches is key to finding the right remedies and relief strategies during these difficult times.

 

 Lifestyle Modifications to Prevent COVID Headaches

 

One of the most effective ways to minimize headaches during the pandemic without turning immediately to medication is making positive lifestyle changes tailored to improving overall health and preventing headache triggers. Try incorporating more of the following:

 

 Getting More Restorative Sleep

🌙

 

Not getting adequate quantity or quality of sleep is one of the most common headache triggers. Sleep is crucial for allowing the body to repair itself and reset. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night during the pandemic, with a priority on consistency. Try to maintain the same sleep-wake cycle, even on weekends if possible. Establish a calming pre-bedtime routine to prepare your body and mind for sleep - take a bath, read a book, practice yoga, meditate, or listen to soothing music. Winding down before bed away from LED screens helps tremendously. Manage stress during the day through relaxation practices so you don't go to bed anxious, avoid caffeine after 2 p.m., and limit alcohol before bed to improve sleep quality. Melatonin supplements may help if insomnia is an issue.

 

 Incorporating Regular Exercise

 

Physical activity every day has so many benefits when it comes to reducing headaches, especially those associated with pandemic stress and changes. Get at least 30-60 minutes of aerobic exercise like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, taking an online exercise class, or doing home workouts. Yoga is another great option. Exercising 3-5 times per week helps reduce muscle tension, manages stress and anxiety, regulates hormones, controls weight, improves sleep quality, and releases endorphins - all factors that can prevent headaches. Just be sure to stay hydrated and avoid overheating when exercising. Being cooped up at home and more sedentary can actually cause headaches - so stay active!

 

 Staying Properly Hydrated💧

 

Dehydration is one of the most common causes of headaches, so maintaining adequate water intake is crucial. Drink at least 64+ ounces of water daily during the pandemic, more if you exercise or live in a hot climate. Getting enough hydration may be more difficult if you are less active going out less, and forgetting to drink water while working remotely. Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine during quarantine, as both have diuretic effects. Try to eat more fruits and vegetables with high water content as well. Aim for mostly clear or pale yellow urine color to indicate you are well hydrated. Infusing your water with fruits like berries and citrus can help increase intake.

 

 Managing Stress with Healthy Strategies

 

Unmanaged chronic stress is a huge contributor to recurrent headaches and migraines. The COVID-19 pandemic has understandably increased stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and fear for many people. Making time each day for relaxing, restorative activities is essential now more than ever. Try yoga, deep breathing, meditation, prayer, guided imagery, doing puzzles, reading uplifting books, enjoying nature, listening to music or podcasts, having virtual dance parties, practicing mindfulness, journaling, or scheduling virtual catch-ups with supportive friends and family. Keeping stress levels balanced with healthy coping strategies needs to be a priority during such a distressing time in the world. Counseling may help some manage overwhelming emotions.

 

 Avoiding Food Triggers

 

Certain foods and drinks are common triggers that can spark headaches or migraines in susceptible individuals. Try limiting or removing alcohol, caffeine, processed foods with nitrites or MSG, artificial sweeteners, chocolate, cheese, salty foods, and cured meats like bacon. Eat balanced, regular meals with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, complex carbs, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated and avoid skipping meals. Pay attention to how certain foods affect you. Managing your diet can go a long way towards headache prevention.

 

 Limiting Alcohol Consumption

 

It's best to avoid alcoholic beverages when aiming to prevent pandemic headaches. Alcohol causes dehydration, disrupts sleep, and can trigger vasodilation and hormone changes - all headache culprits. It also interacts with many medications. However, if abstaining altogether is unrealistic, limit intake to no more than 1 drink per day for women, 2 for men. Avoid binge drinking patterns, drink plenty of water in between alcoholic beverages, and be cautious combining alcohol and pain relieving medications.

 

 Taking Screen Breaks

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an enormous increase in screen time for work, school, socializing, entertainment, and more. Staring at a digital device long-term can definitely cause headaches and pain around the temples, forehead, and neck. Combat this by taking regular screen breaks where you look away into the distance and give your eyes a rest. Follow the 20/20/20 rule - every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Adjust lighting around your work station. Use blue light-blocking glasses to decrease exposure to headache-provoking light wavelengths. Proper posture and ergonomics are also key when sitting at a desk and using technology all day.

 

 Creating a Consistent Routine

 

Our bodies thrive on regular rhythms and routines. The disruptions to normal life caused by COVID can throw consistency completely off, often leading to stress and headaches. Try your best to stick to regular meal times, sleep and wake cycles, work schedules, and other daily routines. Maintain some consistency even on weekends. Creating structure provides stability and a sense of normalcy. Keeping certain parts of your routine aligned as much as possible reduces fluctuation and prevents stress-related headaches.

 

Making positive lifestyle modifications tailored to improving health, reducing stress, and avoiding trigger factors is truly key to effectively preventing headaches during the pandemic without the overuse of medication.

 

 Over-the-Counter Medication Options for Headache Relief

 

When lifestyle adjustments and natural remedies are not fully eliminating headaches related to pandemic stress, over-the-counter medications can provide relief for headache symptoms when used properly and temporarily. Some of the most common OTC options include:

 

 Acetaminophen

 

Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Excedrin, and generic versions) is an analgesic that reduces headache pain and is often a first-line recommendation for mild to moderate pain relief. It works by blocking pain signal receptors and pathways in the brain. Adults can take up to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours when needed, not exceeding more than 3000-4000 mg in a 24 hour period to avoid liver toxicity. Carefully check labels for acetaminophen content when combining products.

 

 Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

 

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and aspirin reduce inflammation and block pain signals, making them effective for tension headaches. Ibuprofen 200-800 mg can be taken every 4 to 6 hours for pain relief. NSAIDs carry more potential side effects like stomach irritation, ulcers, and increased bleeding risk, so limit use unless approved by your healthcare provider. Always take NSAIDs with food and discontinue use if any gastrointestinal upset develops. Those with kidney disease, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular conditions should be especially cautious with NSAID use or avoid altogether.

 

 Combination Analgesics

 

Many over-the-counter headache relief products combine different pain relieving ingredients for multiple actions. One of the most common combinations is acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine (Excedrin Migraine is one brand example). These can effectively treat headache symptoms, but be very careful about combining products with overlapping ingredients to avoid toxicity or overdose. Carefully read warning labels and never exceed stated dosing instructions. Using any medication long-term can potentially lead to medication overuse headaches so aim for the minimum effective dose and duration.

 

While over-the-counter analgesics can offer quick headache relief during the pandemic, building a treatment plan that focuses more on lifestyle measures, natural options, and prevention techniques is ideal to avoid concerning side effects and long-term complications from medication overuse. Use OTC responsibly when needed acutely.

 

 Natural and Holistic Treatments for Headaches

 

For those wanting to avoid side effects and safety concerns with medications during the pandemic, natural holistic headache remedies provide accessible, effective relief options to treat pain and symptoms:

 

 Peppermint Essential Oil

 

The menthol naturally found in peppermint oil contains analgesic and anesthetic properties that provide a cooling, numbing sensation. Applying diluted peppermint essential oil to the temples, forehead, back of neck and/or inhaling the vapors can relieve headache pain. Peppermint oil also reduces nausea associated with headaches. Use 100% pure therapeutic grade oil and dilute with a carrier oil before applying topically.

 

 Ginger Root

 

Ginger contains potent anti-inflammatory, pain relieving compounds called gingerols. Fresh ginger root can be steeped into a tea, added to recipes, or taken in supplement form for headaches and migraines. Some studies show ginger powder is as effective as common abortive migraine medications. Ginger helps reduce inflammation implicated in headaches. The herb also has antiemetic effects for headache-related nausea.

 

 Feverfew

 

Parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone found in feverfew leaves and flowers, helps reduce inflammation and relax blood vessels. Feverfew supplements or extracts may help prevent tension and migraine headaches related to the pandemic for those prone to pain triggered by blood vessel constriction. Using feverfew regularly is more effective for prevention than just acute relief. Consider starting with lower dosages to assess tolerance.

 

 Magnesium Supplements

 

Magnesium deficiency is common and linked to headaches, muscle tension, and anxiety. Good food sources include spinach, chard, pumpkin seeds, almonds, avocado, edamame, dark chocolate, and bananas. Supplementing with 200-400 mg magnesium glycinate or citrate can restore low levels and provide additional benefits. It prevents tight muscle spasms and reduces headache pain caused by pandemic-related stress and poor sleep. Those on magnesium-wasting medications like diuretics should be especially mindful of status.

 

 Coenzyme Q10

 

Some research indicates CoQ10 supplementation can help reduce migraine frequency and severity. Nuts, seeds, soy, fish and meat contain CoQ10, but supplements may provide more potent therapeutic levels. CoQ10 assists mitochondria in producing cellular energy and acts as an antioxidant. Doses around 100 mg up to 400 mg may offer headache relief benefits. Discuss using CoQ10 with your provider.

 

 Staying Hydrated

 

One of the simplest but most effective natural ways to treat and prevent headaches during the pandemic is staying properly hydrated. Be diligent about drinking at least 64 ounces of water daily, avoiding diuretics like caffeine and alcohol, and eating water-rich fruits and vegetables. Dehydration commonly triggers headaches so maintaining hydration should be a priority. Infusing your water with fruit adds flavor and electrolytes.

 

 Willow Bark

 

Willow bark contains a compound called salicin which converts to salicylic acid and acts similarly to aspirin by blocking prostaglandins. The bark can be made into a tea or taken as a supplement for relief of tension headache symptoms related to pandemic stress and anxiety. Willow bark may be gentler on the stomach than aspirin. Use cautiously if you have sensitivities or allergies to salicylates.

 

 Butterbur Root

 

Butterbur root contains petasin and isopetasin, compounds that help reduce inflammation and open constricted blood vessels. Migraine sufferers may find butterbur extracts or supplements useful for preventing and treating headache pain caused by throughout the pandemic. A typical dose is 50-100 mg twice daily. Butterbur may also ease anxiety. Discontinue use if rash or upset stomach occurs. Those with ragweed allergies should avoid, as cross-reactivity is possible.

 

 Caffeine

 

Most headache specialists concur that adding a moderate dose of caffeine paired with a painkiller boosts effectiveness. Combining caffeine with acetaminophen or aspirin helps relieve migraine and tension headache symptoms. Caffeine also constricts dilated blood vessels. Aim for no more than 100 mg caffeine (about the amount in a cup of coffee) when treating headaches. Too much can backfire and worsen headaches. Be cautious using daily to avoid rebound headaches.

 

 Tiger Balm

 

Tiger Balm and other menthol-based muscle rubs provide a cooling, tingling sensation that distracts from head pain when applied to the temples. The menthol seems to temporarily help relieve tension causing headache pain. Tiger Balm also includes camphor, clove, cajuput and other essential oils that may reduce inflammation. Use sparingly and wash hands after applying, as it can irritate eyes.

 

 Acupressure

 

Using fingers or devices to apply pressure to specific acupressure points on the body is a staple in Chinese medicine to alleviate pain and balance energy flow. Pressing into acupressure points on the temples, back of neck, crown of head, and behind the ears can help temporarily relieve headache pain, especially tension headaches associated with pandemic stress. There are even headache relief acupressure masks designed to target key points on the face while you relax.

 

 Seeking Medical Care for Severe Headaches

 

While the majority of headaches during the pandemic can be managed at home with lifestyle adjustments, OTC medication, and natural remedies, it is important to know when to seek medical attention. Please call your doctor or seek emergency care if you experience:

 

- Sudden, severe headache pain unlike previous headaches

- Headaches after experiencing any direct head injury

- Changes in headache patterns, intensity, or added symptoms

- Headaches along with fever, neck pain or stiffness

- New onset of headaches if you are over age 50

- Worsening headache symptoms despite home treatment efforts

- Headaches that interfere with your daily activities

- Headaches during pregnancy or postpartum period

 

Seeking emergency medical treatment is warranted if you have extremely severe, sudden headaches along with worrying symptoms like vision changes, muscle weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking, loss of coordination or balance, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Tracking headache frequency, severity, triggers, and how you respond to various treatments will help your doctor best manage your headaches during the pandemic through telehealth visits. Call them with any worrying changes or lack of improvement with home therapies.

 

 Tracking and Identifying Headache Triggers

 

Paying careful attention to detail when it comes to possible trigger factors that could be sparking recurrent headaches and migraines during this global pandemic is key. Keeping a symptom journal and looking for connections between certain foods, activities, environmental factors, sleep issues, emotions, medications, and your headaches can help identify patterns and problematic triggers unique to you. Some common headache triggers to look out for include:

 

Stress - From job changes to health anxiety, the COVID crisis can exacerbate stress which commonly causes tension headaches. Practice daily stress management.

 

Dehydration - Insufficient fluid intake is a frequent cause of pandemic headaches as routines change. Drink more water consistently throughout the day.

 

Sleep Changes - Fluctuating sleep patterns and insomnia often trigger headaches by disrupting circadian rhythms. Prioritize regular sleep schedules, even on weekends.

 

Neck and Shoulder Tension - Poor posture while working from home or tensing due to stress manifests as neck tightness and tension headaches. Take breaks, stretch, and relax your body.

 

Hormonal Shifts - Menstrual cycles, oral contraceptives, pregnancy and menopause can trigger headaches for women. Track any connections.

 

Weather Changes - Shifts in barometric pressure associated with weather fronts can spark migraines. Use preventive strategies when you see storms coming.

 

Low Blood Sugar - Going too long between meals leads to dips in blood sugar that can cause headaches. Maintain balanced nutrition and don't skip meals.

 

Strong Scents - Fragrances, household cleaners, and other odors can trigger migraines. Avoid exposure or use unscented products.

 

Medication Overuse - Using OTC painkillers more than 2-3 days per week often causes rebound headaches. Limit use to avoid this "medication overuse headache" phenomenon.

 

Daily Caffeine Changes - Inconsistent caffeine intake or skipping usual cups of coffee disrupts brain chemistry influencing headaches. Keep caffeine intake steady.

 

Carefully observing details about your daily habits, exposures, and activities when headaches flare can help narrow down the most likely triggers for you so they can be minimized. Light, sound, certain foods, emotions, and sleep are some of the most common suspects.

 

 Techniques to Activate the Relaxation Response

 

Since stress and anxiety are major contributors to tension headaches and migraines, especially during times of such uncertainty, it is essential to employ proven techniques that activate the body's relaxation response to counter the pain and agitation caused by the pandemic:

 

 Diaphragmatic Breathing

 

Also known as belly breathing, this technique stimulates the vagus nerve and reduces cortisol. It involves deep, rhythmic breathing using the diaphragm muscle rather than shallow chest breathing. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach. Inhale deeply so that your belly presses into your hand, and exhale fully so that your hand rises as the diaphragm moves upward. Repeat slowly for several minutes to induce calm.

 

 Body Scans and Progressive Muscle Relaxation

 

This involves progressively tensing and relaxing each major muscle group from head to toe. Start with your feet and toes, tense for 5 seconds, then release for 30 seconds and notice the feeling of relaxation. Repeat with calves, thighs, hands, arms, back, abdomen, chest, neck, and face. Tensing then relaxing helps release chronic muscle tension that contributes to headaches.

 

 Visualization and Guided Imagery

 

Visualization involves picturing calming scenes in your mind, imagining sights, sounds, smells, textures, and the experience of being there. Examples include a beach, forest, or any comforting place. Guided imagery audio recordings are available that talk you through engaging visualizations to relax both mind and body to reduce headaches.

 

 Mindfulness Meditation

 

Meditation trains the mind to be present and focus on the moment rather than being distracted by stressful thoughts. Apps like Calm, Headspace, and Insight Timer offer free guided meditations. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, focus on your breathing, and redirect your mind gently back each time thoughts arise. Meditating even a few minutes a day eases anxiety known to trigger headaches. Yoga also pairs meditation with gentle physical activity.

 

 Yoga and Stretching

 

Gentle poses and leisurely movements like those done in beginner level yoga classes help relax muscles, enhance flexibility, reduce stress hormone levels, and increase endorphins. Stretching tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, back and hips provides tension relief contributing to headache reduction. Try following YouTube or online yoga videos. Go slowly avoiding strain.

 

 Listening to Calming Music

 

Soothing, serene instrumental music assists the body in activating its relaxation response. Peaceful acoustic guitar, solo piano, light classical, and sounds of nature can relax the mind while also distracting from and masking feelings of head pain. Create playlists of beloved calming music to listen to when headaches flare or when feeling stressed. Allow the notes to wash over your body and transport you to tranquility.

 

 Aromatherapy

 

Essential oil scents like lavender, chamomile, eucalyptus, and peppermint provide calming aromas that distract the mind from headache pain. Oils can be diffused into the air, added to baths, or administered with gentle massages to induce relaxation and headache relief. Apply diluted oils topically to the temples, forehead and neck muscles that commonly tense up causing discomfort. Use 100% pure therapeutic grade essential oils as directed.

 

 Acupressure and Acupuncture

 

Acupressure involves applying physical pressure to various points on the body along meridians to restore balance and flow of vital energy according to traditional Chinese medicine practice. Acupressure applied to the neck, head, hands and feet targets points connected to headache and pain relief. Acupuncture takes this a step further by inserting super thin needles into specific acupoints to activate natural healing. Sessions remove blockages and tension, alleviating headaches.

 

 Creating a Headache-Preventive Environment

 

Given that environmental factors often trigger problematic headaches and migraines, making certain adjustments and modifications to your living space and workstation can help limit exposure to things that spark head pain:

 

- Use natural light during the day and soft yellow lightbulbs in lamps and overhead fixtures. Excessively bright light exacerbates headaches.

 

- Keep rooms at a comfortable, cooler temperature. Excess heat often causes headaches. Use fans, open windows, and control thermostats accordingly.

 

- Play white noise, nature sounds, or soft music in the background to mask harsh noises that overwhelm the senses.

 

- Diffuse a few drops of relaxing essential oils like lavender, peppermint, rosemary, and clary sage which contain anti-inflammatory compounds.

 

- Invest in blue light blocking glasses to wear while using digital devices which emit headache-provoking light.

 

- Set up workstations with proper posture including chair height, external keyboards, and raised monitors.

 

- Follow the 20/20/20 rule by looking away from screens every 20 minutes for 20 seconds at something 20 feet away to give eyes a break.

 

- Stay hydrated, take frequent breaks, and limit total daily screen time.

 

Strategically modifying your home and work environment can prevent many factors known to trigger head pain and discomfort. The goal is a low-stimulation atmosphere with consistent lighting, scents, sounds and ergonomics tailored to your unique needs and sensory tolerances.

 

 Helpful Tips for Headache Prevention

 

Implementing preventative strategies starting today can help circumvent frequent headaches down the road:

 

- Drink 64+ ounces of water daily and eat hydrating fruits and veggies. Dehydration is the 1 cause of headache! 

- Exercise for 30-60 minutes per day to reduce stress, relax muscles, and boost endorphins.

- Prioritize daily relaxation practices like light yoga, deep breathing, meditation, music therapy, journaling, etc.

- Take frequent breaks from digital screens and adjust workstation ergonomics.

- Identify and record personal headache triggers using a journal then make efforts to minimize exposures.

- Follow a meal routine eating regular, balanced meals rich in anti-inflammatory foods.

- Improve sleep hygiene with a consistent bedtime/wakeup schedule, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and calming pre-bed rituals.

- Discuss preventive medications or nutraceuticals with your healthcare provider if lifestyle adjustments are not fully preventing headaches.

- Stay socially connected with loved ones through virtual check-ins - isolation can worsen headaches. 

- Remain mindful of posture and limit muscle tension caused by hunching over devices, scowling, frowning, and forehead wrinkling.

 

Rather than only treating headaches reactively, putting preventative measures into place helps avoid attacks and minimize reliance on medication. Lifestyle adjustments, routine, self-care practices, and finding natural alternatives provides the best chance for overcoming frequent headaches during such a challenging time.

 

 Conclusion

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an enormous increase in headaches due to the immense amount of stress, isolation, changes in routine and work settings, less exercise, and increased screen time faced by many. When headaches regularly interfere with daily life, seriously detract from your quality of life, and over-the-counter medications do not seem to be resolving the issues long-term, it is essential to discuss preventative treatment approaches with your healthcare provider. Combining lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers, conservative use of temporary OTC relief medications, stress and anxiety management techniques, proper hydration and nutrition, appropriate sleep and exercise, and natural supplements or nutraceuticals may provide more comprehensive resolution of your headaches.

 

While living through the COVID pandemic presents many new challenges for headache and migraine sufferers, implementing positive changes through detailed tracking of symptoms and triggers, tapping into telehealth resources, prioritizing self-care, and using accessible evidence-based alternative headache remedies can help minimize the frequency and intensity of headaches. Have patience with yourself through this process - it may take some trial and error to discover which lifestyle measures and home-based treatments offer the most effective relief for your particular symptoms and pain patterns. But having access to proven at-home headache remedies means you can gain control over your headaches despite the unique struggles posed by the coronavirus crisis. With a multi-pronged approach, you can remain hopeful about successfully managing headaches during these difficult times.

 

 FAQs About COVID-19 Headaches

 

How can I tell if my headaches during COVID need emergency care?

 

Seek immediate medical care if you experience any severe, sudden headache along with concerning symptoms like vision changes, blurriness, difficulty speaking, confusion, weakness, loss of coordination, neck stiffness, fever, or head injury. These may indicate an acute medical issue needing urgent evaluation.

 

Why am I suddenly getting bad daily headaches since the pandemic started?

 

Increased emotional stress, social isolation, disruptions in routine, less activity, increased screen time, and lack of sunlight are some common reasons people report more frequent headaches during extended pandemic quarantines. Making lifestyle adjustments can help minimize headache triggers.

 

What OTC pain medication works best for COVID-related headaches?

 

For most people, OTC analgesics like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), aspirin, or combination medications containing these ingredients can provide effective temporary headache relief related to COVID-19 stress and lifestyle factors. Avoid overuse which can worsen headaches.

 

Can natural supplements really help treat headaches during the pandemic?

 

Yes, many natural options like magnesium, ginger, butterbur root, feverfew, tiger balm, staying hydrated, peppermint essential oil, caffeine, and willow bark can effectively relieve headache symptoms related to pandemic lifestyle changes without concerning medication side effects.

 

How often can I take OTC pain relievers safely for headache relief?

 

To avoid complications of medication overuse headaches, take OTC analgesics sparingly, at the lowest effective dose, for the shortest duration possible. Never exceed maximum stated dosages. Allow at least 4-6 hours between doses. Frequent use for more than 2-3 days per week often backfires by causing daily rebound headaches.

 

Why do I feel head pain after drinking alcohol during the pandemic?

 

Alcohol can trigger headaches in multiple ways - it causes dehydration, disrupts sleep, and induces vasodilation and chemical changes in the brain. Limit intake to 1 drink daily maximum for women, 2 for men, and be sure to drink extra fluids to counteract the dehydrating effects of alcohol which commonly induces head pain.

 

How can I safely treat a migraine while pregnant during COVID?

 

Acetaminophen is considered the safest OTC analgesic for headaches during pregnancy. Discuss alternatives with your provider since ibuprofen is not recommended after 30 weeks gestation. Stay well hydrated, get adequate rest, avoid triggers, and use other non-drug techniques for pain relief. Inform your doctor about severe headaches.

 

When should I consider seeing my doctor about frequent headaches?

 

Contact your doctor if OTC relief measures are not resolving your headaches long-term, if headaches worsen or change, if they inhibit your daily activities, if you experience any additional worrying symptoms, or if you get headaches with exertion or certain positions. Keeping your provider informed can help access preventative prescription options.

 

What techniques can I use at home to relieve headache pain?

 

Relaxation techniques like diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, imagery, yoga, mindfulness, meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, aromatherapy, music therapy, self-massage techniques, ice packs, limiting screen use, and using essential oils can help activate your body’s natural pain relief response and reduce headache-related anxiety.

 

How can I stay hydrated if I am tired of drinking plain water? 

 

Try infusing your water with fresh fruit like berries, oranges, lemons or lime for flavor. Herbal teas, decaf coffee, milk, 100% fruit juices, smoothies, broth-based soups, celery, grapes, melons, yogurt and popsicles also add hydration. Avoid excess caffeine and alcohol which have dehydrating effects. Tracking your urine color can help gauge your hydration status.