COVID-19 has affected the world negatively since its detection in December 2019 and its subsequent identification as a global pandemic. While most people relate it with contagious respiratory illnesses, very few know that the virus also causes muscle and joint pain. That is why patients with arthritis are cautioned against coronavirus because of their higher exposure to experiencing its serious effects.
Know more about COVID-19 joint pain, its symptoms, effects, and treatments below.
What Is COVID-19?
COVID-19, also known as coronavirus disease 2019, is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus is contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets produced when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or talks to others. An individual may also get infected if the person touches an object or surface with the virus.
COVID-19 And Its Common Symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms may vary from one patient to another depending on various factors, such as age and disease variants.
The most common symptoms of coronavirus include the following.
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Headache
- Loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Sometimes, individuals may be infected with the virus without any symptoms. Others may have a mild illness and recover quickly, while another category of individuals may develop severe illness and require hospitalization.
Know More About COVID-19 And Joint Pain
COVID-19 has witnessed variations in its symptoms since its identification in 2019. Respiratory disease is also associated with joint pain that may impact an individual’s health.
Does COVID-19 Cause Joint Pain?
Joint pain is a less common symptom of COVID-19, but it has been reported in some cases. The exact cause of joint pain in people with COVID-19 is not well understood, but it is thought to be related to the body’s immune response to the virus.
Some researchers suggest that joint pain after covid may be caused by inflammation of the joints or by the formation of blood clots in the joints. It is important to note that joint pain can also be caused by other factors, such as pre-existing conditions like arthritis or injury, and it is not specific only to COVID-19.
Patients with joint pain may experience severe symptoms if infected with COVID-19. In a few cases, the virus is also causing inflammatory arthritis. Individuals often feel the effects on wrists, knees, shoulders, hips, and ankles.
If you experience joint pain, you must contact your healthcare provider for guidance. They can determine if your joint pain is related to COVID-19 or another underlying condition and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Does COVID-19 Have Long-Term Effects on Joint Pain?
Some studies have reported that a small percentage of people who have recovered from COVID-19 continue to experience joint pain and other musculoskeletal symptoms, such as fatigue, muscle weakness, and stiffness, months after the acute phase of the illness.
However, an in-depth research is necessary to understand the accurate mechanism of COVID-19 causing these long-term effects and how common they are.
It’s important to monitor symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time, and to seek medical attention if necessary. Your healthcare provider can evaluate your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.
According to the WHO’s report, almost 14.8 percent of people have experienced joint and muscle pain when affected by COVID-19. When the patient’s body reacts in response to the disease, it affects the inflammatory molecules, resulting in joint and muscle pain for the patient. Hence, joint and muscle pain is considered one of the common symptoms of COVID-19 disease.
Are There Any Side Effects of COVID-19 Vaccination?
The COVID-19 vaccines effectively prevent severe illness and death caused by the virus. However, like with any vaccine or medication, there can be side effects.
The side effects of the COVID-19 vaccines include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
- Chills or fever
- Nausea
These side effects typically start within a day or two of the vaccine and usually go away within a few days. In some cases, people may experience more severe side effects, such as an allergic reaction, but these are rare and typically occur within minutes to a few hours of getting the vaccine.
However, the side effects signify that the body is building protection against the virus. You must contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe side effects or if the symptoms do not improve or worsen. The benefits of vaccinating against COVID-19 far outweigh the potential risks of side effects. The vaccines are effective in preventing COVID-19.
What To Do If Anyone Experiences COVID-19 Joint Pain?
If an individual experiences any kind of joint or muscle pain when infected with Covid-19, they can follow the steps given below:
- Trying at-home therapies can help to make the pain less severe.
- Allow the painful joints and muscles to rest for some time.
- Taking an anti-inflammatory medicine can help relieve your pain for some time.
- Apply an ice cube or an ice pack to reduce discomfort or swelling in the joints and muscles.
- Gentle stretches and exercises can also help relieve the pain.
However, if you continue to experience joint and muscle pain, you must consult a doctor immediately.
Long Covid Clinics – The One-Stop Destination for Joint Pain Treatment
Long Covid Clinics is a multi-disciplinary Covid Care Center that aims to help individuals fight COVID-19 by providing the best healthcare solutions. We have individually designed care plans for each patient that target the severity of COVID symptoms. If you are looking for efficient coronavirus-related care or treatment, contact us now!
