Covid Toe – A Potential Symptom of Coronavirus
Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, the medical world has seen an influx of new medical syndromes and symptoms that patients have been experiencing as consequences of the virus itself. While the more widely-known coronavirus symptoms include fever, dry cough, fatigue, and severe respiratory distress, a symptom that is garnering attention is referred to as “covid toe.”
What is Covid Toe?
Covid toe is indicative of a suspected COVID-19 infection, and it most commonly refers to the appearance of purple- or blue-hued lesions develop on top of the toes or the fingertips, or in some cases, both. These lesions manifest as blisters on the extremities and can vary in both size and shape. Some cases even report that these lesions may cause some form of itching or burning.
It is believed that this specific symptom is derived from a condition known as chilblain or pernio, which is an inflammation of a small blood vessel found in colder climates. The rash caused by the inflammation typically appears as a red or purple patch. However, it should be noted that the chilblain seen in the context of covid toe may not necessarily itches, so it is important to differentiate the two of them.
What Should You Do If You Think You Have Covid Toe?
The emergence of covid toe could signify a current COVID-19 infection or a previous one. If this is your first time noticing this symptom, it is recommended to get a COVID-19 test to ensure that you don’t have the infection. Following this, it is also important to take some steps to take care of your skin condition and prevent any further complications.
If you are managing an outbreak of the rash, it is recommended to keep the affected area clean and dry, as this will help reduce any itching or irritation and promote a quicker healing process. Additionally, it would be useful to keep the skin moisturized and hydrated, as this will help protect the skin further and promote healing of the lesions. While it is important to keep the area clean, it is also important to note that the use of corticosteroids or other topical medications should be avoided until you consult with a doctor.
Conclusion
Covid toe is an emerging symptom that is indicative of a suspected COVID-19 infection. If you believe you have this symptom, it is recommended to get a COVID-19 test to rule out infection, and also consult a doctor for a diagnosis and advice about management. Knowing about this symptom can be helpful in getting people to pay attention to an early alert, allowing for better management of the symptom and the possible infection.