Some of the symptoms caused by COVID-19 are out of the ordinary. For nearly two years, researchers have been studying the infection’s sensory symptoms, which indicate that they are frequent targets of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
According to the most recent data, more than 10% of those infected with coronavirus have eye or ear symptoms that can last a long time. Researchers have been attempting to determine how the virus infiltrates the senses in order to design interventions or cures.
Eye and Ear Symptoms in COVID Patients
Instead of the typical flu-like symptoms, some COVID-19 patients report inflamed eyes, hearing problems, and balance problems as their initial symptoms of infection, indicating that SARS-CoV-2 has entered the senses.
The wealth of data about the neurological consequences of COVID-19 is increasing faster than anticipated, according to Molecular biologist Lee Gehrke of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
According to reports, after Chinese ophthalmologist Li Wenliang notified the world about COVID-19, which he most likely contracted from an asymptomatic glaucoma patient, experts pondered whether eyes could play a role in viral transmission. Studies suggest that red eyes are a frequent indication of the condition.
This was not surprising, as the 2003 SARS outbreak was also expressed in some patients’ tears, and the danger of getting the virus was increased for those who did not wear eye protection. These symptoms, however, were originally disregarded since eye physicians’ clinics were closed during lockdowns.
Since the crisis began, over 11% of COVId-19 individuals have experienced eyes problems, most notably conjunctivitis, which impacted nearly 89% of people with eye symptoms. Additional COVID-19-related eye complaints include dry eyes, irritation, blurred vision, and light sensitivity.
However, hearing loss and balance problems, as well as a loss of taste, were more frequently cited. According to Zahra Jafari, an audiologist and cognitive neuroscientist, hearing and balance problems may potentially be symptoms of COVID-19, since 12 percent and 4.5 percent of COVID-19 patients, respectively, experienced dizziness or vertigo and ringing in the ear.
Surprising COVID Symptoms
COVID-19 is most frequently associated with fever, dry cough, fatigue, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, and sore throat. Meanwhile, eye and ear symptoms were regarded exceptional due to their rarity. However, the Mayo Clinic lists the following more rare COVID-19 symptoms:
- Skin Issues- COVId-19 may also cause rashes with small bumps on the skin and discolored patches on the fingers and toes, which are more frequently observed in youngsters. Additionally, some individuals get blisters that contain a little quantity of pus and remain between 10 and 14 days.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms- These symptoms may manifest before to the onset of fever and respiratory problems. These include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
- Confusion- In older individuals, delirium or acute confusion may be the only symptom of COVID-19. Regrettably, this is also associated with adverse results or even death.
Experts warn that COVID-19 symptoms may manifest two to fourteen days after infection and may range from moderate to severe, while some individuals may be asymptomatic.
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