Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 infection involves systems besides the pulmonary system and manifest sometimes solely as clinical features other than respiratory. Headache is most common and to some extent distinguishing characteristic neurological symptom of this disease. In this study we will determine incidence and patterns of new headache among patients diagnosed with COVID-19 infection.

Materials and Method: This longitudinal study was conducted in neurology department of Khairpur medical college from December 2020 to march 2021. A sample of 110 COVID-19 positive patients of either gender, age 18-60 years, were included after taking a valid informed/ written consent. Written consent was taken from participants. New headache was defined as occurrence of more than a single episode of headache of more than 2 days during current illness and which was not a previously present.

Results: The mean age was 38.97 ± 12.44 years ranging from 18 to 60 years. The mean oxygen saturation at time of data collection 94.65 ± 3.70% (range: 87-100%). Majority of patients i-e; 62.7% (n =69) were males. The incidence of headache among COVID-19 patient was 57.3% (n = 63). Most common types of headache were pulsating 18.3% (n = 20) followed by pressing and fiery 11.8% (n = 13) each. Ageusia and Diabetes Mellitus most common 23.6% (n = 26) & 20.9% (n = 23) respectively. Stratified analysis revealed that younger age, female gender, mild disease and higher oxygen saturation were associated with mild cases of new headache and also better outcomes of patients. (P value < 0.0001).

Conclusion: A newer headache may present as one of the earliest symptoms of COVID-19. It may persist even after COVID-19 resolution.

Key words: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Headache, BMI, Oxygen saturation.