Uncovering the Uncommon Symptoms of the Latest COVID-19 Variant

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc all over the world, leading to lost lives and severe economic uncertainties. While the initial waves of the virus were largely characterized by a set of common symptoms that were highlighted by the World Health Organization(WHO), the latest variant has brought with it a new set of rare and unconventional symptoms that have caught many by surprise. In this blog post, we will delve into some of the uncommon symptoms of the latest COVID-19 variant that you should be aware of.

1. Gastrointestinal problems

While the common symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath are well-documented, there is growing evidence to suggest that the latest COVID-19 variant has led to an increase in gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. According to a study conducted by the American Journal of Gastroenterology in February 2021, around one-third of COVID positive patients complain of gastrointestinal symptoms.

2. Skin related issues

In some instances, the latest COVID-19 variant has been known to cause skin rashes or hives. In a study conducted by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology on 1,000 positive COVID-19 patients, 8.8% of them reported skin issues. Moreover, some infected patients also reported a blue or purple discoloration of toes and fingers, which is known as COVID-toes.

3. Eye problems

COVID-19 patients may experience conjunctivitis or pink eye, an infection of the clear tissue that lines the front of the eye and the inner eyelid that looks red and swollen. According to WHO, in rare cases, COVID-19 can cause acute retinal necrosis or viral Uveitis.

4. Mental issues

Recent studies suggest that people with COVID-19 are more likely to experience mental health problems than those who don’t have the virus. Many patients have reported experiencing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia. Moreover, those who had to undergo intensive care during their COVID-19 treatment may experience long-term brain complications such as memory loss, confusion, and hallucinations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, with new COVID-19 variants emerging across the world, we need to be more vigilant than ever. The latest COVID-19 variant has brought with it a host of unconventional symptoms that are often unnoticed or attributed to other conditions. By being aware of these uncommon signs and symptoms, we can take precautions and seek medical help quickly if we experience any of them. Remember, early detection is key to effective treatment. Stay Safe!