Flu headaches are intense and often come with fever and muscle aches, making them a clear sign that can help identify the flu early. Moreover, cytokine-induced inflammation and sinus infections are the main causes of these headaches.
For example, nearly 60% of flu patients reported headaches as a primary symptom (CDC). Isn’t it interesting how our body reacts?
Stay connected to the end of this post to learn about the connection between flu and headaches, what to expect and how to get relief.
Headache as a Flu Symptom
Headaches are one of the first symptoms of the flu, usually within 72 hours of the virus getting into your body.
These headaches are sharper and more intense than a cold headache and so bad you have to stop what you’re doing. Flu headaches are severe and throbbing, making this illness even more miserable.
When it hit they can come out of nowhere, often with a fever and body aches. They can be mild or debilitating, making even the smallest tasks seem like a mountain to climb.
Causes of Flu-Related Headaches
Each year, approximately 5% to 20% of the U.S. population contracts the flu. When the flu virus gets into your body it triggers your immune system to release cytokines. This causes inflammation around the brain structures and those headaches.
Although this is your body’s way of fighting off the virus it can be uncomfortable and painful.
Here’s what happens:
- The flu virus releases cytokines, causing inflammation around the brain.
- This inflammation is your body’s way of fighting off the illness.
- Sinus infections can make these headaches worse by increasing inflammation and blockage in the paranasal sinuses.
These are worse with sinus infections which add to the pressure and pain. When a cold or flu is accompanied by a sinus infection the headache can be even more painful.
Flu Headaches vs Other Headaches
Flu headaches are accompanied by fever, body aches and other symptoms so it’s easier to distinguish them from other types of headaches. These headaches feel like a dull throb that covers your entire head very different from tension headaches or migraines.
Unlike tension headaches which feel like a vice grip on your skull and can be relieved with gentle stretching, flu headaches are different.
Migraines which are characterized by throbbing pain and nausea and light sensitivity are also very different.
These can last for days while tension headaches resolve quickly. The level of discomfort during it can range from mildly annoying to feeling like a ton of weight is on your head.
Duration and Intensity
In severe cases flu headaches can last up to 2 weeks. They usually subside as other flu symptoms improve but lingering headaches after recovery may be a sign of a secondary infection like sinusitis.
The intensity of flu headaches can vary, sometimes getting worse with physical activity or exposure to bright light.
Other Flu Symptoms
Muscle soreness and fatigue often come with it. These symptoms can get worse with sinus swelling and inflammation which can worsen the headache by producing more mucus.
Common flu symptoms are fatigue and body aches. The pressure and expansion in the sinuses can worsen headache pain.
As other symptoms like fever improves along with general tiredness relief from these headaches often follows.
However CDC reported that in 2023, influenza vaccination coverage among adults varied by age group:
- Ages 18–34: 35.6%
- Ages 35–49: 39.5%
- Ages 50–64: 49.6%
- Ages 65 and older: 71.3%
Home Remedies
Now that we know the cause of the pain, let’s talk about how to feel better.
In fact, research indicates that hydration can reduce headache severity by up to 30%.
However, you can manage flu headaches at home with several effective ways to get relief during your illness. Prioritize rest, stay hydrated and use over-the-counter meds to get overall comfort and recovery.
Here are some:
1. Rest and Hydration
Stay hydrated as dehydration can worsen flu symptoms. Drink plenty of water and warm soup to alleviate it and support your body’s recovery.
Let your body rest and direct energy towards fighting the infection. Good sleep patterns boost your immune system and helps you recover from flu symptoms.
2. Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help with it. They gives you relief from headache pain so you can get through your day.
Follow the recommended dosage on the label to avoid side effects and get the best results.
3. Warm Compresses
Sinus pressure which is a common flu symptom can cause headaches due to swelling and blockage in the nasal and sinus cavities. Applying warm compresses to these areas can help alleviate congestion by increasing blood flow, reducing swelling and relieving headache pain. The heat also gives you comforting relief from the pressure.
4. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has a soothing effect and can help with headache relief. Dilute a few drops of peppermint oil in a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and massage it into your temples, forehead, or neck.
5. Ginger Tea
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help ease headache pain. Prepare ginger tea by boiling fresh ginger in water, or add ginger powder to warm water.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you have a headache that’s unbearable or with dizziness or confusion, seek medical attention. Doctors can quickly diagnose and treat severe headaches related to flu.
Moreover, if other symptoms arise like difficulty breathing, severe chest or abdominal pain or vomiting, don’t wait to get emergency care.
5 Ways to Prevent Flu and Headaches this Season
Get a flu vaccine every year to protect yourself from flu and its headaches. Good hand hygiene like washing your hands with soap and water is key to preventing the transmission of flu virus and complements your annual vaccination.
As you can see, the mucous membranes in your respiratory system acts as a barrier against harmful pathogens and maintains moisture levels.
To prevent catching or spreading the virus:
- Get yearly vaccinations.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Keep distance from sick individuals.
- Use hand sanitizers when soap and water is not available.
- Avoid touching your face especially around your nose and mouth.
Bottom Line
At the end of the day, headaches during flu season is a big and intense symptom of flu. These headaches are caused by your body’s response to inflammation and sinus infection.
Home remedies like rest, hydration and over-the-counter medications can give you relief, warm compresses gives you extra comfort. But for now, if symptoms worsen, you must seek medical attention.
