Uncommon COVID Symptoms

Uncommon COVID Symptoms – Even though we don’t know everything about COVID-19, we are pretty clued up on most of the symptoms thus far. However, as we learn more through doctors, scientists and other professionals (always via official websites and channels), it is evident that COVID-19 can present in many ways.

First, it is essential to acknowledge that coronavirus may even present as symptoms that do not appear on the list in this article (or in any other article). An important part of learning about new diseases and conditions is to be open to new possibilities and information about them. If we learn to understand the diseases, it becomes easier to identify, prevent and handle them.

Common symptoms of COVID-19

Before we speak of the more uncommon symptoms of coronavirus, we need to establish two things. What are the common symptoms to look out for and what does the term ‘uncommon’ actually mean when used in reference to diseases?

The most common symptoms to look out for are a high fever, a dry cough and constant tiredness. Other usual symptoms may include shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, muscle aches, chills, sore throat, headache, or chest pain, says Mayo Clinic.

When we speak of ‘uncommon symptoms’, these are symptoms that only present in a minority of patients. So few, in fact, that there are only a handful of documented cases.

Uncommon COVID Symptoms

Later, more uncommon symptoms that have arisen from the COVID-19 reports are diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal issues. This distress includes possible loss of appetite and nausea. In extreme cases, nausea may pre-empt chest pains and respiratory/ breathing problems.

Anosmia

Anosmia is the loss of the sense of smell. It is uncommon for COVID-19 but typical for several other viral infections. Some people also refer to it as smell blindness. It happens because conditions that affect the brain or nerves, such as brain tumours or head trauma, and swelling or blockage in the nose, which prevents odours from getting to the top of the nose. Anosmia is sometimes caused by a problem with the system that sends signals from the nose to the brain, explains Healthline. It can be a partial or complete loss of the sense of smell.

A common symptom of COVID-19 is the loss of appetite; it may in fact be as a result of Anosmia, as the sense of smell and the sense of taste go hand in hand.

Usually, this is accompanied by a lack of taste that lasts around nine to 14 days. Some research suggests that loss of smell or taste might be an early predictor of COVID-19.

Skin lesions

Younger people have been noted to suffer an extra symptom that hasn’t really presented in older patients. 

This symptom has been seen in less severe cases, though. Kids, who develop mild cases of COVID-19 (when the virus doesn’t really affect the chest as much as in more complicated cases), could also experience painful, itchy lesions on their hands and feet that resemble chilblains, an inflammatory skin condition.

Sometimes called COVID toes, this symptom typically lasts about 12 days. However, new research suggests that these lesions might simply be chilblains caused by sedentary behaviour and failure to wear warm footwear during lockdowns, rather than by COVID-19.

Confusion and lethargy

Yes, exhaustion is a common symptom of COVID-19, significantly when the virus has affected the chest badly. A lack of oxygen causes lethargy. But, sometimes one of the first signs of COVID-19 is tiredness and mental fog.

If you notice any of these symptoms, or any other symptoms unlisted here, that are concerning and out of place, make sure to call either your doctor or the Coronavirus screening centre, and they will advise you on your next steps.

Treating the symptoms

There is no cure for the coronavirus, but there are loads of over-the-counter meds that you can purchase to make your recovery more manageable. Pain killers, flu meds, vitamin C supplements and many other drugs can fight the aches and pains and nasty symptoms as well as build up your immune system.  

If you are quarantining in a home that is shared with others, isolate yourself to a single room, if possible. Use your own bathroom, utensils and other usually shared spaces and items. If the whole family has tested positive, still practise caution. There’s very little research to confirm that there is no chance of reinfection.

Clean up

Keeping the home clean is a given, but there is a need to be extra cautious now that the virus is in your house. 

Sanitise counters, floors and the toilet and basin daily. Use some bleach in the cleaning water, especially when washing dishcloths and towels. As far as possible, everyone should have his/her own utensils.

Stay in contact with your doctor or the healthcare professional who is guiding you through this time. Constant treatment could get pricey, without the cover of medical insurance like Affinity Health. 

Even though the virus isn’t curable, your GP could prescribe medications to ease your recovery. If you do need hospitalisation at some point, it will do well to have sufficient cover.