Covid symptoms: Skin problems that may be an indication of COVID infection

By far we know well that the signs of coronavirus are not only restricted to the respiratory system. The virus that enters the body via the nose can affect several other organs as well. In the process, it can also affect the outer skin leading to a range of symptoms. Now that summers are here these skin issues can be easily confused with heat rash, delaying the treatment process. To help differentiate between the skin condition caused by COVID and other issues, the UK based ZOE COVID Study recently revealed two major types of rashes associated with COVID.

Zoe Covid Symptom Study is an app-based study carried out by inputs shared by infected people via the app. According to the recent finding, the researchers of the study have divided the skin issues developed by COVID into two categories: prickly heat or chicken pox-type rash and hive-type rash. The first type is commonly spotted by small areas of itchy red bumps. Although this skin problem can pop up anywhere, it usually starts around the elbows, knees and the back of the hands and feet. The second type called the hive type rash is extremely itchy and appears suddenly. It can also appear anywhere on the body, including the face. Here are distinct characters of each type of skin issue:

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Hive is a kind of rash that appears in different shapes and sizes. They usually make your skin look red and patchy. They develop quickly within a few hours and may cause a stinging sensation. It can appear in any part of the body including the thighs, back and face. As per a different study, the skin condition appears in the early phase of the infection and can last for a long time. For some people, the condition may even last for six weeks after the initial infection

Prickly heat kind of rashes appear like red bumps, which can be slightly swollen and cause an itchy rash. When infected with coronavirus, these kinds of bumps mostly appear on the elbows, knees and occasionally at the back of the hands and feet. Depending on the severity of the condition, the bumps may be filled with fluid. These kinds of rash can persist for days or weeks. Using a cold compress and taking cool baths may help to reduce the itchiness.

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Chilblains are the inflammation of small blood vessels that appear on your skin. Also known as pernio, chilblains can cause itching, red patches, swelling and blistering on your hands and feet. Sometimes it may even appear on your face and legs. When suffering from Chilblains, the skin appears itchy. Some people may even feel a burning sensation.