We learn about the symptoms and progress of Covid-19 every day. It seems that a new consequence of the disease is confirmed in some patients, and it is rather unexpected.
The symptoms of Covid are numerous, and surprising. Cough, fever, but also loss of taste, smell, hiccups, hair loss, as well as skin conditions.
These latter seem to be shared by many patients, so much so that the French Society of Dermatology launched a study on the subject called “Covid Skin” from March to May 2020. The study looked at the rashes shared by many patients infected to varying degrees. However, difficult to draw conclusions. An American study this time brings more certainties.
Some patients notably contract redness in the feet that resemble frostbite, quickly nicknamed "covid toes": "It appears that there is a certain subgroup of patients who, when they contract Covid-19, develop inflammation of the toes in the form of frostbite" Dr. Esther Freeman, author of this study jointly conducted by the International League of Dermatological Societies and the American Academy of Dermatology, explains in The Independent journal. Some patients have this symptom for a long time – one of them was even affected for 6 months!
Is it related to the Covid? Scientists have been slow to rule on the subject. After numerous studies, it seems that these skin conditions are not directly linked to the virus, but to the immune response provoked in our body. This immune response would affect the blood vessels, and therefore could cause disorders, including these species of frostbite. The disease therefore affects not only the lungs, but many organs in the body.
Covid toes are said to develop between one to four weeks after infection. Symptoms are mild most of the time and the feet return to normal within a few weeks. If not, you can go see a doctor.