COVID-19 and headache: Impact on pre-existing and characteristics of de novo: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background and aimsHeadaches represent at the same time the symptom and the disease, while the secondary ones are the expression of an ongoing pathology that can be systemic, locoregional or distant. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence rate in the workplace in a ward (Nucleo Alzheimer) during the period of Sars-COV2 infection. This survey was carried out using 2 questionnaires: 1 (work activity sheet), 2 (headache sheet according to IHS criteria). MethodsAll health personnel belonging to the Alzheimer Nucleus of the IDR S. Margherita di Pavia were subjected to compilation of questionnaires during the Sars-COV2 infection period. ResultsFrom the analysis of the questionnaires administered, it was found that out of 15 workers, 10 were women and 5 were men. 4 (all women had migraines without aura) and 7 tension-type headaches (5 women and 2 men). Before the Sars-COV2 period, only 2 workers had migraine without aura and 2 tension-type headaches (all women). All 11 workers reported stress, insomnia, and concern for family members and their own health. None of the workers at the time of testing had been vaccinated. ConclusionsFactors related to the work environment are able to increase the frequency and/or intensity of pre-existing headaches. It is also likely that particular situations can give rise to or cause some forms of headache under certain working conditions. Excessive responsibility or, on the contrary, disaffection and incongruous work rhythms should be considered among the occupational risk factors.