When Covid-19 impacted the world, it was all anyone could talk about and for good reason. There was no warning and it was a pretty scary time with so many unknowns regarding the virus. By now most people have been infected by or exposed to this virus at some point in time. And now new variants keep appearing that keep us on our toes and in what seems like a constant state of uncertainty.
Many studies have been done and one thing is for sure; that the COVID-19 affects different people in different ways. There are two types of people, the symptomatic (shows symptoms of a disease) one and the asymptomatic one (do not show any symptoms of a disease.)
Even though this might be brought about due to different medical reasons, it is important to note that just because you don’t show any signs/symptoms of covid-19, doesn’t mean you are a negative carrier.
A recent study taken in a county in China showed the following results:
Asymptomatic Sex Ratio
Skin Rashes and Covid-19
Skin rashes are now being linked with coronavirus COVID-19 infections. What is also starkly different with the COVID rashes is that they normally show up on any part of your body; from the back of your neck to your arms, feet and also thighs.
It is said that COVID-19 rashes can take many diverse forms. One study from Spain identified different patterns of COVID-19 rash. One of the most common rash categories was the "macropapular rash." This rash features both small, flat discolorations (macules) and small, elevated lesions (papule).
It usually happens when the virus begins to multiply and attacks linings along the veins and arteries, which could be itchy, red or bumpy looking. Sometimes, discolored, patchy skin could also occur when there is reduced oxygen flow in the body.
One should note that these body rashes could also impact those who suffer from a mild or asymptomatic form of infection.
Inflammation can also show up in the form of purplish, reddish bumps in and around the toes or nails.
Neck and chest eczema, for those inclined to skin infections, could also be a sign to worry. And these rashes are normally associated with more severe COVID-19 infections.
Other rashes that are associated with COVID-19 include thickened lesions developing around the heels of the person’s feet.
Rashes can be both painful, itchy and act up when there's widespread inflammation on the skin. Getting infected with COVID-19 could also be a reason for any unusual skin rashes.
So if you happen to notice any rashes on your skin and you don’t have allergies or are not sure of what might have triggered them, it is always safe to pay your doctor a visit.
Covid-19 Nails & Toes
While COVID toe has been a discussed for a very long time as an unusual COVID symptom, the COVID nails are the newest symptom to be concerned about.
Distinct markings on the nailbeds could also serve as a hint that an individual might have contracted a COVID-19 infection in the past.
As more studies are being made and more people are becoming more knowledgeable about the symptomatic manifestations of the viral infection, even newer studies have recognized that the infection and recovery could leave some patches or visible lines on the nails.
While this may be harmless, viral spread in the edges can also show up in the form of discoloration or be rough to touch. In some cases the virus can cause the tips of the fingers or toes to form a bluish-tinge and this can be painful.
Covid & Hives (Urticaria)
According to specialists, the presence of hives in an unusual manner or urticarial, could also be a sign that COVID-19 is rapidly spreading to your skin. What seems to be weird and different about this COVID symptom is that, unlike all the other different types of rashes, hives will come and go within hours, and resolve on their own.
However, it could be itchy, painful and cause bumps across the surface of the skin. Studies have also shown that this particular symptom could also come up long after a patient has already defeated the virus.
Lip/Oral Rashes & Covid
Dry lips or oral rash could also happen to a person who has an active COVID infection. Developing dry and scaly lips during the infection phase is common and in most cases, the soreness can also spread inside the mouth. This is more expected because of skin dryness and blisters, which happen to be a side effect of said infection.
Dry lips can also happen when you are dehydrated, or not getting ample nutrition during recovery so remember to always have your medical check-ups.
Apart from this, medics also warn patients at home to be extra careful about observing a bluish tint on the lips, and pale skin, which could be signs of major oxygen deprivation and also require urgent medical attention.
Covid-19 & Sensitive Skin
In the growing list of symptoms observed with the second wave of COVID is skin sensitivity. Being highly sensitive in the upper abdomen is now being increasingly seen among patients who are testing positive for the virus, and could even make it difficult for them to wear clothes properly. The itchy, uncomfortable sensation, while is less documented, is linked to mast cell activation, caused by widespread inflammation.
Differentiating Between Skin Infections & COVID Symptoms
While a lot of these symptoms could also strike when you have a skin infection or allergy, be on the lookout for the progression of COVID-19 symptoms.
According to the amount of research that has been done, skin symptoms show up in the early phase of the infection, and are followed by a fever, cough and other usual signs of a COVID-19 infection. You can also learn more about the skin symptoms of the COVID-19 Delta Variant here.
Depending on your symptoms, get tested and follow the proper guidelines.
Stay safe!