Can You Get the COVID Vaccine with Frequent Headaches and Heart Issues?

Q: Can You Get the COVID Vaccine with Frequent Headaches and Heart Issues?

Hello, Miss： Propranolol works by reducing sympathetic nervous system activity and is commonly used clinically as a preventive medication for migraines. <br>Your symptoms may need to be considered in the context of migraine attacks that can cause visual disturbances. <br>Our auto

If you frequently experience headaches, dizziness, numbness in your hands and feet, and a rapid heartbeat, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. They can evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine if vaccination is appropriate for you?

Hello, Doctor.
I am currently experiencing frequent headaches, dizziness, and a long-term tingling sensation in the tips of my fingers and toes.
Sometimes my hands suddenly lose strength completely.
Additionally, I have issues with nasal congestion, a scratchy throat, and a rapid heartbeat.
When my headaches are severe, I also see wavy, bright lights (even with my eyes closed).
I would like to ask what could be causing these symptoms and which specialty I should consult.

Furthermore, I have been taking antiarrhythmic medication due to my persistent rapid heartbeat, but I have been inconsistent with my medication during the pandemic.
Could this be related to my current symptoms? Should I continue taking the medication? Also, with my current condition, can I still receive the COVID-19 vaccine? Is it necessary to stop the antiarrhythmic medication before vaccination? Thank you for your assistance.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/15

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, Miss: Propranolol works by reducing sympathetic nervous system activity and is commonly used clinically as a preventive medication for migraines.
Your symptoms may need to be considered in the context of migraine attacks that can cause visual disturbances.
Our autonomic nervous system is regulated by both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, one acts as the accelerator and the other as the brake.
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for stimulating the body, leading to increased heart rate, faster breathing, and increased sweating during activities such as exercise.
Once the activity stops, the parasympathetic nervous system takes over, slowing the heart rate, reducing breathing speed, and decreasing sweating.
If propranolol is used long-term, it is not advisable to stop it suddenly; a tapering dose is recommended.
The drug has a biological half-life of about 4–5 hours, and its effects will diminish within a day after discontinuation.
For the migraine aspect, it is advisable to follow up with a neurologist.
There is no need to stop using propranolol when receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
After vaccination, it is recommended to drink plenty of water and rest.
If you experience persistent fever or other discomfort, seek medical attention and inform the physician of your symptoms, their onset, and the timing of the vaccination.
Common reactions after vaccination may include pain and swelling at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, elevated temperature, chills, joint pain, and nausea; these symptoms are usually mild and resolve within a week.
It is advisable to have some single-ingredient acetaminophen (avoid combination products) on hand for discomfort.
I hope your vaccination goes smoothly.
Please ensure self-protection before and after medical visits, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to new pandemic prevention measures.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares for you.

Reply Date: 2021/07/15

More Info

Based on your symptoms of frequent headaches, dizziness, tingling in your fingers and toes, occasional weakness in your hands, nasal congestion, and rapid heartbeat, it is essential to approach this situation with caution. These symptoms could be indicative of several underlying conditions, including migraine headaches, anxiety, or autonomic nervous system dysregulation. The visual disturbances you describe, such as seeing shimmering lights or patterns, could be related to migraine aura, which is a common phenomenon associated with migraines.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a neurologist for a thorough evaluation. A neurologist can help determine if your headaches are indeed migraines or if there is another neurological issue at play. Additionally, your rapid heartbeat and the use of propranolol (a beta-blocker) suggest that you may have an underlying heart condition or anxiety that needs to be addressed. A cardiologist could also provide valuable insights into your heart health and the appropriateness of continuing your current medication.

Regarding your question about receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, it is generally safe for individuals with a history of headaches and heart issues to receive the vaccine, provided that their conditions are stable and well-managed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities recommend vaccination for most individuals, including those with pre-existing conditions, as the benefits of vaccination in preventing severe illness from COVID-19 outweigh the potential risks.

It is important to continue taking your prescribed medication, such as propranolol, unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider. Stopping your medication abruptly can lead to rebound symptoms, including increased heart rate and anxiety. If you have missed doses due to the pandemic, it is crucial to discuss this with your doctor to determine the best course of action moving forward.

Before getting vaccinated, make sure to inform the healthcare provider administering the vaccine about your medical history, including your current symptoms and medications. They will assess your situation and determine if it is safe for you to proceed with the vaccination.
Post-vaccination, it is common to experience mild side effects such as fatigue, headache, or muscle pain, which usually resolve within a few days. However, if you experience any severe or persistent symptoms following vaccination, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or significant changes in your heart rate, seek medical attention immediately.

In summary, while your symptoms warrant further evaluation by specialists, you should not automatically rule out vaccination against COVID-19. The key is to ensure that your conditions are stable and well-managed before proceeding. Always consult with your healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding your health and vaccination status.

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Hello, it is suitable for you to get vaccinated. You can take your medications as scheduled, and it will not affect the vaccination. Don't worry, Changhua Hospital cares about you.