Symptoms

The image illustrates an individual in a hospital bed

being cared for my a healthcare worker.

COVID-19, caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, presents a wide range of symptoms that vary in severity from mild to severe. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The incubation period for the virus is typically 2-14 days after exposure, with symptoms appearing most commonly around five days post-exposure. Here’s an overview of all potential symptoms.

The image illustrates the milder symptoms that individuals may potentially experience if diagnosed with COVID-19. It is worthy to note that one may

experience a range of all or none if infected with the virus.

Common Symptoms

• Fever or Chills: One of the most frequent symptoms, a fever indicates the body is fighting off an infection. Chills often accompany a fever.

• Cough: A persistent, dry cough is a hallmark of COVID-19. In some cases, the cough may produce phlegm or mucus.

• Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing: This symptom ranges from mild respiratory discomfort to severe respiratory distress, requiring medical intervention.

• Fatigue: Many individuals experience extreme tiredness and lack of energy, which can be debilitating and last for weeks.

• Muscle or Body Aches: Similar to other viral infections, COVID-19 can cause widespread muscle and joint pain.

• Headache: A common symptom, headaches can range from mild to severe and persistent.

• New Loss of Taste or Smell: Known as anosmia and ageusia, the sudden loss of these senses is a distinctive symptom of COVID-19, often occurring without nasal congestion.

• Sore Throat: A sore throat can be an early indicator and is often accompanied by other symptoms.

• Congestion or Runny Nose: While less common, some individuals report nasal congestion and a runny nose, similar to symptoms of the common cold.

• Nausea or Vomiting: Gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, can occur, particularly in more severe cases.

• Diarrhea: Alongside nausea and vomiting, diarrhea is another gastrointestinal symptom that can appear during the course of the illness.

Less Common Symptoms

• Skin Rashes and Discoloration: Some patients experience rashes, including small red or purple spots, or changes in skin color on the fingers and toes (COVID toes).

• Eye Symptoms: Conjunctivitis (pink eye) and other eye-related symptoms have been reported in some cases.

• Confusion or Altered Mental State: Particularly in older adults, confusion, delirium, and altered mental states can be signs of severe COVID-19.

• Chest Pain or Pressure: Persistent chest pain or pressure is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention.

Severe Symptoms Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

If any of the following symptoms are present, it is crucial to seek emergency medical care:

• Difficulty Breathing: Severe shortness of breath or breathing difficulties that do not improve with rest.

• Persistent Chest Pain or Pressure: Continuous pain or pressure in the chest.

• New Confusion: Sudden confusion or inability to stay awake.
  

• Bluish Lips or Face: Indicates low oxygen levels in the blood, requiring urgent care.

• Inability to Stay Awake: Extreme lethargy or difficulty waking up.

Asymptomatic Cases

Notably, some individuals infected with COVID-19 remain asymptomatic, showing no signs of illness but still capable of spreading the virus to others. Asymptomatic carriers highlight the importance of widespread testing and preventive measures such as wearing masks and social distancing.