Signs And Symptoms Of COVID-19

On these uncertain times that we are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to know and monitor ourselves of the signs and symptoms of this disease in order for us to manage it sooner before it gets worst. Perhaps, most of us, or all of us rather, are obedient with the 'new normal' by wearing masks and even face shields when we go out of our homes, believing and trying to protect ourselves and the people around us. But do we also know what are the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 that we have to watch out for apart from fever and chills (i reckon its the basic sign that everybody knows).

But before we discuss about the signs and symptoms of COVID_19, do we know how this virus spreads? It is believed that COVID-19 spreads mainly thru close contact from person to person thru respiratory droplets produced then coughing, sneezing, or just by merely talking. It is also with the understanding that even people without signs and symptoms may be able to spread the virus. As per CDC - Centers for Disease Control And Prevention - the incubation period of the virus (time from exposure to onset of signs and symptoms) is extended until 14 days, and as such, within those days, even if you still don't manifest any signs and symptoms, you still can spread the virus without knowing it. Hence, knowing the signs and symptoms of the disease helps us to monitor ourselves and our family and manage or get help as soon as we can thus prevent us from infecting others.

1. Fever and chills - fever/chills that don't go away even with medications and treatments. Or if you have fever that is relieved after a medication, and then have fever again after few hours.

2. Cough - cough which usually starts as dry cough and progressing to productive cough, or not at all.

3. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing - it is believed that the lungs is the main organ affected with COIVD-19 causing SOB/DOB and other manifestations of the disease.

4. Muscle or body aches - these are among the most common reported symptoms of people with COVID-19 along with

5. Headache and

6. Fatigue

7. New loss of taste or smell - it is believed that this symptom differentiate COVID-19 from flu infection. People with flu don't usually experience loss of taste or smell, that which people who tested positive for COVID-19 does.

8. Sore throat - most people who tested positive for COVID reports initial signs of sore throat.

9. Congestion or runny nose - similar to common flu, congestion and runny nose also manifests in COVID-19 infection.

10. Nausea and vomiting - some people don't experience vomiting, though nausea is one of the most common reported signs of COVID-19.

11. Diarrhea - it is observed that most of the people admitted in the hospital reports diarrhea, among other signs and symptoms, reason of them being admitted.

As research about COVID-19 continues, more signs and symptoms are being added on these list.