How Long Do COVID Symptoms Last? A Comprehensive Guide
COVID-19 has been a hot topic for over a year now, and despite being in the vaccination phase, the virus is still a threat since new strains are emerging. It is therefore important to understand the COVID-19 symptoms and how long they last to be better prepared. Here is an in-depth guide outlining the duration of COVID-19 symptoms.
The Duration of COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms vary from person to person, with a range of mild to severe symptoms. The most common symptoms are fever, coughing, fatigue, and shortness of breath. The following is a comprehensive list of COVID-19 symptoms and their duration:
Fever
Fever is characterized by an increase in body temperature and is a typical symptom of COVID-19. A report by the World Health Organization states that fever is present in approximately 80% of COVID-19 cases. For most patients, fever lasts for an average of three days, but it can be up to seven days for some.
Coughing
Coughing is another common symptom of COVID-19, and it results from inflammation of the respiratory system. Typically, the cough lasts for an average of eight days, but it can extend to up to three weeks for some patients.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is often the most severe symptom of COVID-19 and is usually present in severe COVID-19 cases. The duration may last from a few days to several weeks, with some patients experiencing long-term breathing difficulties.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom that stems from weakened body immunity. It can last for a week or two, but it can be up to a month for some patients.
Body Pain
Body pains including muscle pain, joint pain, and headaches are symptoms that can linger for a few days to several weeks.
Loss of Smell and Taste
Anosmia, or loss of smell, and ageusia, or loss of taste, have been reported in many COVID-19 cases. These symptoms usually resolve within two to four weeks.
Recovering from COVID-19
Recovering from COVID-19 symptoms is different from person to person. Some patients recover within a few days, while others may take weeks or months to recover fully. The course of illness depends on many factors, including pre-existing conditions, age, and severity of the disease.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is crucial to seek medical attention if the symptoms become severe, such as difficulty in breathing, chest pain, confusion or bluish lips or face. For high-risk patients like the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, early consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended.
Conclusion
COVID-19 has impacted the world greatly, and though there are vaccines available, the virus remains a threat due to new strains emerging. It is important to know the duration of COVID-19 symptoms from a time/illness management perspective, and seek medical attention appropriately. By understanding the duration of COVID-19 symptoms, we can better manage and combat this pandemic.
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