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Covid cough and chronic migraine

I managed to avoid Covid for the past three years. This Christmas my streak was broken, bound to happen I suppose. Now I’m dealing with the dreaded cough. My understanding is that this could last some time. What are some suggestions, besides the obvious drops and syrups, for those of us who are chronic migraineurs that watch every move they make? Just to be clear, I’m at the daily stage in my journey. For me it just depends on duration, intensity and stage of migraine. Thank you all in advance for any suggestions, thoughts, and just general discussion.


  1. UGH - that's frustrating! Sorry to hear you are dealing with a lingering cough. I don't have any words of wisdom on cough remedies, I hope I didn't just jinx myself! I'm sure others will be along shortly to share their experiences with you. Please keep us posted on how you are feeling, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator Migraine.com Team


    1. You too! And wouldn't you know, I now have a rotten head cold. I haven't been sick in close to three years! So far negative for "vid"
      How are you doing today? Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator Migraine.com Team

    2. Feeling better now, Nancy? Three years is an amazing streak of wellness. I only get sick once a year-ish, so I usually say, "Well, I guess I'll allow it this time." Ha. Take it easy! -Melissa, migraine.com team

  2. Sorry to hear you have the "vid", . Dealing with covid is rough. Seems the strain out there now is very very catchy. Hoping that it doesn't linger too long. The cough I had and the pounding daily headaches, and the migraines that came along lasted 6 weeks. I have no new insight into resolving the cough other than taking the time to heal, eating healthy, and resting appropriately. I had a humidifier/vaporizer in my room (asthma) and used the shower/bath with eucalyptus bombs to help open up my lungs and sinuses (I find this eases migraines), so were helpful. And I used ginger drops to help with the annoying tingle in my throat that would get me coughing. Also found that I had to sleep sitting up for a bit bc lying flat tossed me into coughing fits. Hope some of this helps. Wishing you better days ahead in the New Year. Rebecca (comm advc)

    1. I just really wanted to thank everyone for responding. This was my first real question, and I appreciate your responses. I’m feeling better overall, but the cough really is a “killer” on the old noggin. But like most things in the life of chronic migraine/pain, I’ll get through it. I hope you all stay safe and healthy.

      1. Hi @kris7293,
        Try some Slippery Elm Bark tea with some honey - Traditional Medicinals sells a version under the name throat coat. You can also, I'm sure, get it online. It's a very nice, soothing lightly licorice flavor and it does work for my family. We also love the Riccola cough drops (yes, my family is a hippie, dippie family, lol). The Slippery Elm bark does not have any drug interactions, but check with your doctor, because it can slow the absorption of some drugs. Sending you some love, light and healing. Feel better! -Warmly, Donna (team member)

      2. I'm so sorry that nasty cough has persisted! But like others have said, great job and way to go avoiding Corona for so long! Either you're living in a bunker, or you're washing your hands like a champ! When I got it last year, I remember my migraines spiked pretty hard and were way more frequent, I tried to sleep them off to the best of my ability. But that dry cough can be really rough. I would usually just go wild with over-the-counter options. Cough syrup, throat lozenges, throat coat, drinking lots of water, you name it. I hope you find relief and soon. Everybody takes covid on so differently and I hope something that one of us said will help you! Sending positive vibes your way. It'll pass woon enough! 🙌 ~ Sawyer (migraine.com team)

    2. I want to thank you all for responding and offering suggestions. I’m just now starting to feel like a “normal” human again. That means just my normal pain level. 😉 I know this is now part of our everyday life, but man, that took me down. Sawyer, I loved your comment about “living in a bunker”. Close, we live in a cabin in the mountains. I was a pharmacy technician for almost 30 years, so washing my hands was not a new concept to me. 🤣 I truly appreciate the kind words, well wishes and advice.
      Kristin


      1. Good to hear you're feeling "normal" again. I like to call it my "new normal" makes me feel better!
        Please know we're here for you and you're not alone! Wishing you a low pain weekend, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator Migraine.com Team

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