Is light sensitivity a symptom of headaches related to COVID-19?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, can be a symptom of headaches associated with COVID-19. However, light sensitivity with headaches is also commonly linked to other conditions, including migraines, meningitis, concussions, and eye strain. If your headaches are severe, frequent, or worsening, consulting a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice is essential.

Because headache-related light sensitivity has many possible causes, identifying the right one quickly matters. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you understand your symptoms, narrow down potential causes, and guide your next steps—so you can decide whether self-care, a doctor's visit, or urgent attention is needed.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

COVID-19 can cause a wide variety of symptoms, including headaches. Research has found that some people with COVID-19 who experience headaches also report light sensitivity, also known as photophobia. This means that bright lights may cause discomfort and/or worsen the headache (whereas a dark room may be more comfortable).

It is important to remember that light sensitivity with headaches can also be a symptom of other health conditions such as migraines. If your headaches are severe, frequent, and/or worsening, you can use a free symptom checker to help identify possible causes, and consult a healthcare provider for a personalized medical assessment to determine the cause of your symptoms.

(References)

Bou Ghannam A, Ibrahim H, Mansour H, Kheir WJ, Al Hassan S, & S Saade J. (2024). Impact of online learning during COVID-19 pandemic on .... Heliyon, 38988532.
Garcia MA, Barreras PV, Lewis A, Pinilla G, Sokoll LJ, Kickler T, et al. (2021). Cerebrospinal fluid in COVID-19 neurological complications. medRxiv : the preprint server for health sciences, 33469596.
Tana C, Azorin DG, Cinetto F, Mantini C, Tana M, Caulo M, et al. (2023). Common Clinical and Molecular Pathways between .... International journal of molecular sciences, 37176011.

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