COVID-19 has changed our lives in many unpredictable ways. One high-impact change is the intricacy of differentiating common symptoms of illnesses like migraines from those of the novel coronavirus. In this extensive guide from Bend Headache Center, we’ll delve into the key differences and tell-tale signs that can help you make this vital distinction between COVID-19 and migraine symptoms.
Understanding COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19, caused by the novel coronavirus, is an illness with effects ranging from no noticeable symptoms to severe respiratory distress and other serious complications. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- New loss of taste or smell
Migraines and Their Symptoms
Migraines are severe headaches characterized by throbbing pain usually on one side of the head, accompanied by other symptoms like:
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Nausea or vomiting
- Visual disturbances
A migraine episode can last for hours, even days, causing significant discomfort and disrupting daily activities.
COVID-19 and Migraines: Comparing Symptoms
At Bend Headache Center, we understand that separating symptoms of COVID-19 and migraines can be challenging. The following comprehensive comparison can guide you:
COVID-19 Symptoms Rarely Seen in Migraines
- Fever, which is not common in migraines
- Persistent cough – this is a respiratory symptom typically absent in migraines
- Shortness of breath, usually associated with respiratory illnesses and not migraines
- A sudden loss of smell and taste unconnected with nasal congestion
Overlap of Symptoms in COVID-19 and Migraines
There are symptoms common to both COVID-19 and migraines. These include:
- Fatigue: This could be due to the body fighting off an infection in the case of COVID-19, while in migraines, it could be a postdrome of the headache
- Headache: Headaches can also occur in patients with COVID-19, but the nature of the headache differs when compared to migraines
Interpreting Symptoms: Key Distinctions
While there are overlapping symptoms, specific differences can guide self-diagnosis:
Nature of the Headache
COVID-19 headaches are often described as a severe, pressing sensation in multiple areas, unlike the pulsating, side-localized nature of migraines.
Accompanying Symptoms
Migraine attacks are often marked by visual disturbances or auras, sensitivity to light and sound, and possible nausea and vomiting, none of which are typical in COVID-19.
Timelines and Progressions
Migraine progression usually follows a pattern of pre-headache phase, headache, and post-headache phase. COVID-19 symptoms, however, tend to evolve over days, including a sudden onset of fever, cough, and loss of sense of taste and smell.
Migraines, COVID-19, and You
If you’re struggling to identify whether your symptoms point to a migraine attack or COVID-19, reach out to us at Bend Headache Center for professional consultation. While we emphasize the significance of professional medical advice, we provide this guide as a primary resource in these challenging times, for you and your well-being.
