COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, presents a wide range of symptoms that can vary from mild to severe. Some individuals may be asymptomatic, showing no symptoms at all. Symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Here are the common and less common symptoms associated with COVID-19:
Common Symptoms
- Fever or chills: Feeling hot to touch on the chest or back[1][2][3][4][5].
- Cough: A new, continuous cough or worsening cough[1][2][3][4][5].
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: This can be a sign of possible pneumonia[1][2][3][4][5].
- Fatigue: Extreme tiredness or feeling exhausted[1][2][3][4][5].
- Muscle or body aches: General body pain or muscle aches[1][2][3][4][5].
- Headache: Persistent or severe headaches[1][2][3][4][5].
- New loss of taste or smell: Sudden loss or change in the sense of taste or smell[1][2][3][4][5].
- Sore throat: Pain or irritation in the throat[1][2][3][4][5].
- Congestion or runny nose: Similar to cold symptoms[1][2][3][4][5].
- Nausea or vomiting: Feeling sick or actually vomiting[1][2][3][4][5].
- Diarrhea: Loose stools or upset stomach[1][2][3][4][5].
Less Common Symptoms
- Chest pain: Tightness or pain in the chest[1][2][3][4][5].
- Confusion or irritability: Cognitive dysfunction or mental confusion[1][2][3][4][5].
- Skin changes: Cold, clammy skin or a bluish color[5].
- Loss of appetite: Reduced desire to eat[3][5].
- Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy[5].
- Sore eyes: Eye discomfort or pain[5].
- Hoarse voice: Changes in voice quality[5].
- Numbness or tingling: Sensory issues[5].
Severe Symptoms (Requiring Immediate Medical Attention)
- Difficulty breathing: Especially at rest or inability to speak in sentences[5].
- Persistent chest pain or pressure: Continuous pain in the chest[5].
- Confusion or drowsiness: Severe cognitive issues or loss of consciousness[5].
- Bluish skin color: Indicating a lack of oxygen[5].
Long COVID
Some individuals may experience long-term effects known as long COVID, which can include fatigue, breathlessness, and cognitive dysfunction, affecting daily activities[5].
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advised to get tested for COVID-19 and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen[1][2][3][4][5].
Citations:
[1] https://www.snohd.org/543/COVID-19-Signs-and-Symptoms
[2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/symptoms-causes/syc-20479963
[3] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/covid-19/covid-19-symptoms-and-what-to-do/
[4] https://info.health.nz/conditions-treatments/infectious-diseases/covid-19/about-covid-19
[5] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/coronavirus-disease-%28covid-19%29