Symptoms and COVID-19 are not a consistent match. While many have experienced a fever and a loss of taste, many that have been diagnosed with the virus haven’t had any symptoms. So, what gives? And are there any symptoms that we can generally rely on to show themselves earlier?

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Hixson has some answers, so read on.

What Are the Most Common First Symptoms of COVID-19?

Fever, cough and muscle pain, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea are the most common early symptoms of the virus, according to a recent study done by the University of Southern California.

Like we said earlier, however, COVID-19 symptoms vary on a case-by-case basis. While fever is generally the first symptom to pop up, many COVID-19 patients won’t experience one, which is why it’s so important to follow the necessary health-safety precautions that we’ve listed below.

Health-Safety Precautions to Follow

• Wear a mask in public.
• Remain six feet apart from others when outside the home.
• Frequently wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.
• If you don’t have access to soap and water, use alcohol-rich hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid large gatherings and crowds.

Is Back Pain a Common Symptom?

It can be, but again, COVID-19 symptoms tend to vary. Back pain due to COVID-19 is grouped in with general muscle aches or pains, which the CDC lists as an official symptom.

Additionally, studies have shown that COVID-19 patients who have recovered have said that they experienced lingering back pain. It is worth noting, though, that not all back pain is caused by COVID-19. We’ve listed some common causes of back pain below.

Other Common Causes of Back Pain

• Pulled muscle or tendon
• Arthritis
• Osteoporosis
• Injured, herniated and ruptured discs
• Stress
• Fibromyalgia

COVID-19 should be taken very seriously! If you experience any symptoms, schedule a test at our AFC Urgent Care Hixson center ASAP. Feel free to call or visit us if you have any other general health concerns.