At this point, we already know the familiar warning signs of COVID-19: fever, cough, shortness of breath. But we also know that the virus causes literally dozens of symptoms. Some are simply strangers; some are strange, but common enough that you think they would be on the CDC’s official symptom list, but they’re not. “This list does not include all possible symptoms,” says the agency. Here are five symptoms of COVID that you may not have heard of, but you should definitely be aware. Keep reading and, to ensure your health and the health of others, do not miss these Clear signs that you’ve had the coronavirus.
A considerable number of patients with COVID-19 were dismayed to discover thinning hair in the days or weeks since their initial diagnosis. (Actress Alyssa Milano has notably shared her coronavirus-related hair loss on social media.) new study of nearly 48,000 COVID-19 patients found that 25% of them experienced hair loss. Experts say this is called a telogen effluvium, a temporary fall in the entire head that is caused by a “system shock” such as fever or illness.
It is also not on CDC’s list of COVID symptoms, but it is very common: Skin problems. About 20% of people with COVID-19 report skin changes, including skin rashes or hives. It is here that we are forced to mention the recently released “COVID toes”, rashes or painful stains on the toes that can last for months in some people.
A new study published in BMJ Open Ophthalmology found that nearly a third of COVID-19 patients reported eye symptoms. (And that number may be even higher, as people tend to underreport symptoms that they do not consider serious). These problems can include conjunctivitis (pinkeye), sore eyes, itchy eyes or photophobia (sensitivity to light). The researchers say COVID can cause eye problems because the virus can enter the body this way.
The coronavirus can attack the inner ear, causing dizziness, vertigo, fainting, ringing (or “ringing in the ears”) and even hearing loss. Studies have found that one in ten patients with COVID reports tinnitus or reduced hearing, usually as a late-onset symptom.
According to a published study inside The American Journal of Emergency Medicine, reported that a 37-year-old man in San Antonio, Texas, developed testicular pain and swelling three days after being diagnosed with coronavirus. The researchers wrote that “Several genitourinary complications have been reported” with COVID-19, including blood clotting problems that can cause priapism (a prolonged and painful erection).
As for you, do everything you can to avoid getting – and spreading – COVID-19 in the first place: Wear a face mask, get tested if you think you have coronavirus, avoid crowds (and bars and parties at home), practice social detachment, perform only essential tasks, wash your hands regularly, disinfect frequently touched surfaces and to overcome this pandemic in the healthiest way do not miss these 35 places you’re most likely to reach COVID.