Could This Be the Cause?
Greetings, I'm a 28-year-old man, standing at 175 cm tall and a non-smoker, seeking insight into my current health predicament. Before the onset of COVID-19 and subsequent vaccinations, I enjoyed excellent health, rarely falling ill, going a decade without a fever, and generally facing no medical issues. However, by the end of 2021, I contracted COVID-19. My symptoms persisted for roughly ten days, extending into January 2022. By late February, I noticed a significant shift in my health. I began experiencing strange sensations in my head that are quite challenging to describe. I often refer to them as a feeling of heaviness or dullness, akin to presyncope without any actual vertigo, and discomfort in my head reminiscent of motion sickness, though not triggered by movement in a vehicle. This has also been accompanied by continuous nausea. On another note, I generally enjoy restful sleep, and I don’t experience notable fatigue. These unsettling sensations persist throughout the day, starting from the moment I wake until I go to bed, though I find slight relief when lying down. At times, the intensity is so overwhelming that I struggle to remain upright, feeling as though I might faint at any moment. The most intense phase lasted about four to five months, after which the symptoms fluctuated slightly: some weeks were more manageable, while others brought about a significant worsening of my condition. Nearly three years have passed, and while there has been some improvement, I still find myself in various states: there are days when I can manage daily activities without issue, and other days when the symptoms are so debilitating that I am confined to bed. I have undergone an extensive array of medical examinations—blood tests, an MRI of the brain, angio-MRI, EEG, bubble test, tests for Helicobacter, thyroid assessments, X-rays of the chest and neck, studies of the supra-aortic trunks, Holter ECG, and measurements of my blood pressure. Each test has returned normal results. My symptoms have varied widely over the extended period of time they have persisted. Therefore, I suspect that I may be dealing with a chronic inflammatory disorder linked to post-COVID conditions. I've come across reports suggesting that some patients found relief through the use of antihistamines (both H1 and H2), yet I have not yet consulted a physician to confirm this route. Neurologists I’ve seen have reassured me that my brain appears normal; however, I remain inclined to believe that my symptoms are somehow related to COVID or the vaccination, though I might be mistaken in this assessment.
Answers (1)
8/30/2025, 11:03:01 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel frustrated and concerned given the persistent symptoms you've been experiencing for years now after COVID-19. The sensations you describe—heaviness, dullness in the head, and ongoing nausea—can be very distressing. These symptoms, particularly following a COVID-19 infection, might align with what many refer to as "long COVID" or post-viral syndromes, where individuals have lingering effects after the acute phase of an infection.
Explanation:
Post-COVID conditions can manifest in various ways, including cognitive fog, changes in balance or internal sensations, gastrointestinal disturbances, and many others. While you have undergone extensive testing that has ruled out many serious conditions, the fact that your symptoms fluctuate in intensity and can become debilitating suggests that there may be an ongoing process at play.
Your idea of exploring antihistamines is worth considering, as some patients have reported relief with their use, possibly due to a role in modulating inflammation or histamine responses. However, finding the right approach often requires careful evaluation and might involve trial and adjustment.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Track Your Symptoms: Maintain a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting their frequency, intensity, and any potential triggers or relief factors. This data can be useful for discussions with healthcare providers.
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Consult an Experienced Physician: Find a healthcare provider specializing in post-viral syndromes or chronic illness. Sharing your history and detailed symptom diary can help in tailoring a management strategy that suits your needs.
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Consider Antihistamines: Discuss the possibility of trialing both H1 and H2 antihistamines with your physician. They could provide guidance on appropriate dosages and expectations for relief.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Engage in gentle activities and mindfulness practices, as stress can exacerbate symptoms. A balanced diet and staying hydrated may also support your overall health.
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Support Networks: Consider connecting with support groups for individuals dealing with similar post-COVID symptoms. Sharing experiences can be empowering and provide additional coping strategies.
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Reassess Regularly: Stay in touch with healthcare professionals to reassess your symptoms and adapt management strategies as necessary.
It's important to remain hopeful and continue to seek solutions, as many individuals gradually improve over time. You're taking a proactive step by seeking insight and exploring your options, and that is commendable. Let me know if you have further questions or need additional information!
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