A New Strange Symptom of ‘Long Covid’ Discovered
A new study has revealed the existence of a new strange ‘long Covid’ symptom based on a case reported by scientists at the University of Leeds.
The Persistence of Covid-19 Symptoms
While most people who become infected with COVID-19 recover within days or weeks of initial symptoms, some may experience more prolonged and persistent symptoms, referred to as “protracted COVID” or “post-COVID-19 syndrome.”
By far the most common symptoms are extreme fatigue, loss of smell, muscle pain, and shortness of breath. Other problems include memory problems, chest pain, insomnia, heart palpitations, dizziness, joint pain, tinnitus, depression, and anxiety.
The Discovery of a New Symptom
And now, a new study has revealed a previously unknown symptom of “prolonged Covid”, in which the legs of a patient infected with the Corona virus turn blue after 10 minutes of standing, highlighting the need to raise awareness of these symptoms among those who have it.
The medical journal The Lancet published details of the new case after the 33-year-old was referred to a specialized clinic.
The patient had what scientists described as a “rapid discoloration to purple” on his legs for six months. Upon standing up, he noticed that his legs gradually became heavier due to “tingling and itching”, and they became more and more blue.
The patient added that the rash sometimes appears on the legs, but the cryptic symptoms disappear when lying down.
Understanding Acrocyanosis
This disorder is known as acrocyanosis, or severe and persistent bluing or cyanosis of the extremities. It usually occurs on the arms and legs but can also appear through the nose and ears.
“This was a striking case of cyanosis in a patient who had not experienced it prior to contracting Covid-19,” co-author Dr. Manoj Sivan, assistant professor and emeritus consultant in rehabilitation medicine at the University of Leeds, told the British newspaper Metro.
He continued: “Patients with this may not be aware that it may be a symptom of long-term COVID-19 and dyskinesia, and they may be disturbed by what they see. Similarly, doctors may not be aware of the link between acrocyanosis and long-term Covid. We need to ensure greater awareness of neuronal dysfunction (nervous system dysfunction) during the long period of Covid so that clinicians have the tools they need to manage patients appropriately.”
No Correlation between Severity of Covid-19 and Long-Term Symptoms
The severity of a COVID-19 case does not appear to be related to the likelihood of developing long-term Covid, as people initially experience mild symptoms similar to long-term problems.
Source: Independent
