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5 Lesser-Known Symptoms of COVID-19: What Are They? ➢ SARS-CoV-2, the novel, highly infectious virus known to cause coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is rapidly evolving. The research community is working round the clock to study how the virus behaves as the pandemic continues to affect thousands of people every single day. ➢ On average, most infected individuals express mild-to-moderate symptoms 5-6 days after infection. Clinical symptoms most reported among COVID-19 cases worldwide include midto high-grade fever (intermittent) and chills, cough, difficulty in breathing, congestion or runny nose, and sore throat, among others. Some symptoms like persistent pain in the chest, bluish lips or face, or inability to stay awake are considered life-threatening and warrant emergency medical care. ➢ However, this list of symptoms associated with the infection is not completely exhaustive. With health and medical care professionals advising the public to “watch symptoms,” it is important to understand the various manifestations of the infection before COVID-19 testing. Here, we discuss some of the lesser known symptoms of COVID-19, which are part of the official list of COVID-19–related symptoms released by the CDC (Centers of Disease Control and Prevention).
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1. New loss of smell or taste ➢ A number of COVID-19 cases now report a sudden or new loss of smell or taste in the absence of nasal congestion; typically lasting 1-2 weeks. This symptom was added to the official list of symptoms in May 2020. Research shows that this could be an early predictor of COVID-19.
2. Gastrointestinal disturbances ➢ The virus may affect the gastrointestinal tract and cause mild symptoms upon initial infection. One may experience a sudden loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. These symptoms often go unnoticed as they are commonly reported in a number of conditions.
3. Eye problems ➢ Ocular symptoms such as swollen eyelids and watering with or without discharge have been reported in number of COVID-19 cases in recent times. Research also suggests conjunctivitis may be linked to COVID-19. Affected patients also complain of sensitivity to light and irritation, especially in severe cases.
4. Skin conditions ➢ Skin rashes, itchiness, painful lesions have been observed in many children or young adults with mild COVID-19 infection. Many cases report peeling of hands and feet, which are likely the body’s reaction to the viral load. Another common skin condition observed is the appearance of lesions or blisters causing discoloration in toes, resembling the inflammatory condition called chilblains—now called as the COVID toe.
5. Headache and dizziness ➢ Throbbing headaches and neurological symptoms, including dizziness and a sense of confusion (delirium), are also known to be linked to COVID-19. Sudden onset of these symptoms could point to a more serious condition and warrant medical assistance. ➢ Other atypical symptoms of COVID-19 include fatigue, malaise, and a general sense of feeling unwell. Even if you are experiencing only mild symptoms, public health officials recommended that you monitor your overall health, practice good hygiene, and stay at home. If you think you may have related symptoms and wish to undergo COVID-19 testing, Waikiki residents can undergo rapid corona virus testing in Al Moana and neighboring regions. ➢ Closely monitoring your health and prompt communication with health care professionals will go a long way in safeguarding your health and that of your friends and family! Consider availing expert health care via a telemedicine appointment at Urgent Care Hawaii centers. Don’t forget to share this article with your loved ones to raise awareness about the infection.