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We’re been in the coronavirus pandemic here in the UK for almost a year now, and at this point we’d probably all be giving ourselves back to get some sort of qualification in the major symptoms of COVID-19. The most common signs of the dangerous virus are a high temperature, a new, persistent cough, and a loss or change in your sense of smell or taste – but this is not the only indication that you have been able to detect it.
As we well know, a new variant of COVID started to spread in the UK in the last months of last year. It is believed to be significantly more transmissible than the original virus, and researchers are still investigating whether there are other traits we need to know about. So far it seems that the symptoms of the new variant are very similar to those of the primary virus. However, there was some anecdotal evidence that headache is a specific symptom that people notice with the new variant.
Over on Twitter there is talk a lot about headaches increasingly manifesting as a sign of COVID. “The new variant COVID has a different symptom profile. Not loss of smell and taste, but headaches, such as eye strain and then throbbing temple. Also back pain,” one person wrote. “Our experience at the moment with a new hotspot is that the initial symptoms are headaches and nausea,” another shared.
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The World Health Organization’s website lists headaches as one of the “less common” symptoms of coronavirus, along with diarrhea, rash, aches and pains and more. So, what does a UK doctor think about the suggestion that headaches may be an indication of the new variant?
“There have been some studies that have previously linked headaches to the virus. However, more research needs to be done to determine if headaches are a major symptom of mutations of the virus,” said Dr. Samantha Wild, GP at Bupa UK. tell Cosmopolitan. “We are still learning a lot about these new variants, ‘she adds.
The current guidance does not recommend that you take a headache-only test, so Dr. Wild recommends “to continue to monitor your symptoms and check the NHS website for any update,” for anyone currently experiencing headaches but nothing else. “If you experience significant headaches without any other symptoms, it may be worthwhile to see a GP. They can be linked to many different conditions so that a doctor can help diagnose the cause,” she suggests. and adds: “You can also call 111 if you are not sure or worried about any symptoms you have.”
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The doctor repeats this the core COVID symptoms are currently applicable to any variant of the virus. “Currently, the key symptoms for any COVID-19 strain remain the same: a persistent cough (longer than an hour-long cough, or three or more cough episodes within 24 hours), a temperature and loss of taste or smell,” she says. “If you go to a doctor because of these symptoms, it’s worth discussing other issues at the same time, such as headaches.
Dr. Wild also points out that headaches are usually experienced by those with Long COVID (where you have had the virus and are still experiencing symptoms). “It can vary in severity and duration,” she says, requesting those who believe they have Long COVID to seek advice from their doctor.
What do we know about the new COVID-19 variant?
All viruses – such as the coronavirus – undergo genetic changes, called mutations. The COVID-19 mutation identified in the UK has ‘many different mutations’, the doctor explains.
“Several of these mutations involve changes to the protein that the virus uses to attach itself to the surface of human cells. Changes to this part of the protein can – in theory – lead to the virus becoming more contagious and spreading more easily between humans. says Dr. Wild, adding that “there is no evidence that any of these variants of the coronavirus cause more serious diseases.”
The most important thing to remember is to follow government guidelines to protect yourself and others from catching and spreading the coronavirus. Stay home unless you go to one of the authorized exemptions (including workout abroad, seek medical care, go to work that cannot be done at home, and more) and when you leave home, make sure you wear a mask wear, social distance and practice hand hygiene. “These measures should give the virus less chance to change,” notes dr. Wild op.
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It goes without saying that if you become ill and experience any of the common symptoms, you should isolate yourself and arrange for a coronavirus test.
The doctor adds that we must not only protect it physically, but also do it mentally. ‘If you feel anxious, take a few deep breaths and accept that your anxiety will pass. It can be helpful to write a list of the things you have in mind, as well as to talk to someone you trust. It can be a great relief to open up about how you feel about your loved ones. Alternatively, talk to your doctor. There is always support available. ‘
The information in this story is accurate from the date of publication. While we try to keep our content as up to date as possible, the situation surrounding the coronavirus pandemic continues to evolve rapidly, so it is possible that information and recommendations have changed since its publication. Visit the site for any concerns and latest advice World Health Organization. If you are in the UK, the National Health Service can also provide useful information and support, while US users Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
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