15 Common Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Symptoms You Need to Know

Coronavirus Disease 2019, commonly known as COVID-19, is an infectious respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Since its emergence, COVID-19 has affected millions of people worldwide, presenting with a wide range of symptoms that can vary from mild to severe. Understanding the symptoms of coronavirus is crucial for early detection, proper isolation, and seeking timely medical care when necessary.

COVID-19 symptoms can appear anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus, with most people developing signs within 4-5 days. While some individuals may experience severe symptoms requiring hospitalization, others may have mild symptoms or remain asymptomatic. This comprehensive guide will help you recognize the most common coronavirus symptoms, understand when they typically appear, and know when to seek medical attention.

1. Fever or Chills

Fever is one of the most common and earliest signs of COVID-19 infection. A fever is typically defined as a body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Many coronavirus patients report experiencing fever as their first noticeable symptom, often accompanied by chills or feeling alternately hot and cold.

The fever associated with COVID-19 can be intermittent, meaning it may come and go throughout the day. Some people experience low-grade fevers that persist for several days, while others may have high fevers that spike suddenly. Chills often accompany the fever, causing body shakes and an inability to feel warm even when bundled up. This symptom typically appears within the first few days of infection and may last anywhere from a few days to over a week.

It’s important to monitor your temperature regularly if you suspect COVID-19 exposure. However, not everyone with coronavirus will develop a fever, and the absence of fever does not rule out infection.

2. Persistent Dry Cough

A dry, persistent cough is one of the hallmark symptoms of coronavirus. Unlike a wet cough that produces mucus or phlegm, a COVID-19 cough is typically dry and can be continuous and exhausting. This cough originates from irritation in the airways caused by the viral infection.

The coronavirus cough can be severe enough to cause chest discomfort or pain, and it may worsen at night, disrupting sleep. Patients often describe it as a nagging cough that doesn’t seem to go away and doesn’t provide relief even after coughing. The cough can persist for weeks, even after other symptoms have resolved, and in some cases may be one of the long-term effects of COVID-19.

This symptom can appear early in the infection, sometimes even before fever develops. If you develop a new, persistent cough, especially in combination with other symptoms, it’s advisable to get tested for COVID-19 and isolate from others.

3. Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath is a serious symptom of COVID-19 that requires immediate medical attention. This symptom indicates that the virus may be affecting the lungs more severely, potentially leading to pneumonia or acute respiratory distress.

People experiencing this symptom may feel like they cannot get enough air, may breathe rapidly or heavily, or may feel chest tightness. Simple activities like walking to another room, talking, or even resting may cause breathlessness. Some patients describe feeling like they’re breathing through a straw or have a heavy weight on their chest.

Shortness of breath typically develops later in the course of illness, often around day 5-8 after the first symptoms appear. However, it can occur earlier or later depending on the individual. If you experience severe difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, bluish lips or face, or confusion, seek emergency medical care immediately as these could indicate life-threatening complications.

4. Fatigue and Extreme Tiredness

Overwhelming fatigue is one of the most commonly reported symptoms of COVID-19, affecting the majority of infected individuals. This isn’t just ordinary tiredness – it’s an extreme exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest and can make even simple tasks feel impossible.

COVID-19 fatigue is characterized by a profound lack of energy that persists throughout the day. Patients often report feeling completely drained, unable to get out of bed, or needing to rest after minimal activity. This exhaustion can be so severe that it interferes with daily functioning and may be accompanied by muscle weakness and body heaviness.

Fatigue can appear early in the infection and may be one of the first symptoms people notice. It can also persist for weeks or even months after other symptoms have resolved, becoming part of what’s known as “long COVID.” The extreme tiredness is thought to result from the body’s immune response as it fights the viral infection, which requires significant energy expenditure.

5. Loss of Taste or Smell

One of the most distinctive symptoms of COVID-19 is the sudden loss of taste (ageusia) or smell (anosmia). This symptom is relatively unique to coronavirus compared to other respiratory infections and can occur even in people with mild or no other symptoms.

The loss of these senses can be partial or complete. Some people report that food tastes bland or like cardboard, while others cannot taste anything at all. The loss of smell may mean being unable to detect strong odors like coffee, perfume, or even smoke. In some cases, people experience distorted smell or taste, where familiar scents or flavors seem different or unpleasant – a condition called parosmia.

This symptom typically appears early in the infection, often within the first few days, and sometimes without any other noticeable symptoms. For many people, taste and smell return within a few weeks, but for others, these senses may take months to fully recover or may result in persistent changes. The sudden onset of taste or smell loss, especially without nasal congestion, is a strong indicator of possible COVID-19 infection.

6. Muscle or Body Aches

Muscle aches and body pains, medically known as myalgia, are frequently reported by people with COVID-19. These aches can affect various parts of the body and are often described as feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck or having the flu.

The muscle aches associated with coronavirus can be widespread, affecting the back, legs, arms, shoulders, and neck. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe aching that makes movement difficult. Some people experience joint pain as well, with stiffness and soreness in the joints. These symptoms result from the body’s inflammatory response to the viral infection.

Body aches typically appear in the early stages of COVID-19, often alongside fever and fatigue. They may persist for several days to a week or more. The severity can vary significantly between individuals, with some experiencing only mild discomfort while others have debilitating pain that requires rest and over-the-counter pain relief.

7. Headache

Headaches are a common symptom of COVID-19, affecting a significant portion of infected individuals. The coronavirus headache can present differently than typical headaches, often described as moderate to severe, persistent, and sometimes pulsating.

COVID-19 headaches are frequently reported as pressure-like pain that affects the entire head or concentrates around the forehead and temples. Some patients describe it as a tight band around the head or a heavy, throbbing sensation. These headaches may not respond well to typical over-the-counter pain medications and can persist for days or weeks.

The headache can appear at any point during the infection but is often one of the earlier symptoms. It may occur alone or in combination with other symptoms like fever, fatigue, and body aches. In some cases, severe or persistent headaches may indicate complications and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider, especially if accompanied by other concerning symptoms like confusion, stiff neck, or vision changes.

8. Sore Throat

A sore throat is a common early symptom of COVID-19, though it’s also associated with many other respiratory infections. The coronavirus sore throat can range from mild scratchiness to severe pain that makes swallowing difficult.

People with COVID-19 may describe their sore throat as feeling raw, scratchy, or burning. The discomfort may worsen when swallowing, talking, or in the morning after waking up. Some individuals also report a feeling of something stuck in the throat or swollen sensation. The sore throat may be accompanied by a dry, irritated feeling and increased thirst.

This symptom typically appears in the first few days of infection and may be one of the initial signs people notice. While a sore throat alone doesn’t necessarily indicate COVID-19, when combined with other symptoms like fever, cough, or loss of taste and smell, it increases the likelihood of coronavirus infection. The sore throat usually resolves within a few days to a week as the infection progresses or improves.

9. Congestion or Runny Nose

Nasal congestion and runny nose are symptoms that have become more commonly associated with COVID-19, particularly with newer variants. While these symptoms were initially thought to be less common with coronavirus, they’re now recognized as frequent manifestations of the infection.

COVID-19 can cause nasal stuffiness, making breathing through the nose difficult, as well as rhinorrhea (runny nose) with clear or slightly colored discharge. Some people experience post-nasal drip, where mucus runs down the back of the throat, causing irritation and coughing. These symptoms can make COVID-19 difficult to distinguish from a common cold or allergies.

Nasal symptoms may appear at any point during the infection and can occur with or without other symptoms. However, it’s worth noting that loss of smell associated with COVID-19 often occurs without significant nasal congestion, which is a distinguishing feature from typical colds. If you develop congestion or runny nose along with other coronavirus symptoms, it’s advisable to get tested and isolate from others.

10. Nausea or Vomiting

Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting can occur with COVID-19, though they’re less common than respiratory symptoms. These symptoms indicate that the virus can affect the digestive system, not just the respiratory tract.

Nausea associated with COVID-19 can range from mild queasiness to severe nausea that leads to vomiting. Some people experience persistent nausea throughout the day, loss of appetite, and inability to keep food down. The nausea may be accompanied by stomach discomfort or cramping. These symptoms can lead to dehydration if fluids cannot be retained.

Gastrointestinal symptoms may appear at the onset of illness or develop a few days into the infection. In some cases, nausea and vomiting are the primary or only symptoms of COVID-19, particularly in children and younger adults. If you experience persistent vomiting that prevents fluid intake, it’s important to seek medical attention to prevent dehydration and receive appropriate care.

11. Diarrhea

Diarrhea is another gastrointestinal symptom that can occur with COVID-19 infection. Research has shown that the SARS-CoV-2 virus can infect cells in the digestive tract, leading to various digestive symptoms including loose or watery stools.

COVID-19-related diarrhea can vary in severity from mild, occasional loose stools to frequent, watery diarrhea that occurs multiple times per day. Some people experience diarrhea as their first or only symptom of coronavirus, while others develop it alongside respiratory symptoms. The diarrhea may be accompanied by abdominal cramping, urgency, and general digestive discomfort.

This symptom can appear at any point during the infection and may persist for several days. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, especially when combined with other symptoms like fever or vomiting. It’s important to maintain hydration by drinking plenty of fluids and electrolyte solutions. If diarrhea is severe, persistent, or accompanied by signs of dehydration, medical attention should be sought.

12. Chest Pain or Pressure

Chest pain or pressure is a concerning symptom that can occur with COVID-19 and may indicate more serious complications. This symptom should always be taken seriously and may require immediate medical evaluation.

People with COVID-19 may experience various types of chest discomfort, including sharp pains, dull aching, pressure or tightness in the chest, or a feeling of heaviness. The pain may worsen with breathing, coughing, or physical activity. Some individuals describe it as feeling like someone is sitting on their chest or like their chest is being squeezed.

Chest pain can result from several mechanisms in COVID-19, including inflammation of the lungs (pneumonia), inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), or inflammation of the lining around the lungs (pleuritis). It may also result from excessive coughing straining the chest muscles. Persistent chest pain or pressure, especially when accompanied by difficulty breathing, bluish discoloration of lips or face, or confusion, requires emergency medical attention as it could indicate serious complications like blood clots or severe lung involvement.

13. Confusion or Inability to Stay Awake

Neurological symptoms like confusion and extreme drowsiness or inability to stay awake are serious manifestations of COVID-19 that require immediate medical attention. These symptoms may indicate severe infection or complications affecting the brain.

Confusion in COVID-19 patients may manifest as disorientation, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or altered mental state. People may seem “out of it,” have trouble following conversations, forget recent events, or become confused about time and place. Extreme drowsiness goes beyond normal fatigue – it’s characterized by an inability to stay awake or alert, excessive sleeping, or difficulty being roused.

These neurological symptoms can occur due to several factors, including low oxygen levels in the blood, inflammation affecting the brain, fever, dehydration, or direct viral effects on the nervous system. They may appear at any point during the illness but are more common in severe cases. If you or someone you’re caring for develops confusion or cannot stay awake, seek emergency medical care immediately as these symptoms indicate potentially life-threatening complications requiring urgent intervention.

14. Skin Rash or Discoloration

Various skin manifestations have been reported in COVID-19 patients, ranging from rashes to discoloration of the fingers and toes. While less common than respiratory symptoms, these dermatological signs are increasingly recognized as potential indicators of coronavirus infection.

COVID-19-related skin symptoms can take many forms, including red or purple rashes, hives, small bumps, or blisters. Some people develop what’s been called “COVID toes” – reddish or purple discoloration of the toes or fingers, sometimes with swelling and pain, resembling chilblains or frostbite. Other skin manifestations include flat or raised red patches, net-like patterns on the skin, or small spots caused by bleeding under the skin.

These skin symptoms can appear at various stages of the infection – sometimes as early signs before other symptoms develop, during the acute phase of illness, or even after other symptoms have resolved. The exact cause of these skin manifestations isn’t fully understood but may relate to inflammation, immune response, or blood vessel involvement. While usually not dangerous, skin changes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider, especially if accompanied by other symptoms or if the rash is widespread or severe.

15. Eye Redness or Conjunctivitis

Pink eye or conjunctivitis – inflammation of the membrane covering the white part of the eye – can occur in people with COVID-19, though it’s one of the less common symptoms. The virus may directly infect the eye tissue or cause inflammation as part of the overall immune response.

COVID-19-related eye symptoms may include redness of the white part of the eye, watery or discharge from the eyes, itching or burning sensation, light sensitivity, or a gritty feeling in the eyes. Some people also report swollen eyelids or feeling like something is in their eye. The eye symptoms can affect one or both eyes and may appear along with other coronavirus symptoms or occasionally on their own.

Eye redness typically develops early in the infection but can occur at any point during the illness. While usually mild and self-limiting, eye symptoms should be monitored, and good hygiene practices should be followed to avoid spreading the virus through eye secretions. If you develop severe eye pain, vision changes, or significant eye discharge, consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and care.

Main Causes of COVID-19

COVID-19 is caused by infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a novel coronavirus that was first identified in late 2019. Understanding how this virus spreads is essential for preventing infection and controlling transmission.

Viral Transmission

The primary cause of COVID-19 is exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which spreads mainly through respiratory droplets and aerosols produced when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. The virus can be transmitted in several ways:

• Respiratory droplets: When an infected person expels droplets through coughing, sneezing, talking, or breathing, these droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby or be inhaled into the lungs.
• Airborne transmission: Smaller aerosol particles containing the virus can remain suspended in the air for extended periods, particularly in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation, and can infect people at distances beyond six feet.
• Surface contact: The virus can survive on surfaces for varying periods. Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face, particularly the mouth, nose, or eyes, can lead to infection, though this is considered a less common mode of transmission.
• Close contact: Being within close proximity (typically within 6 feet) of an infected person for prolonged periods significantly increases transmission risk, especially indoors.

Risk Factors for Infection

Several factors increase the risk of contracting COVID-19:

• Lack of vaccination: Unvaccinated individuals are at higher risk of infection and severe disease compared to those who are fully vaccinated and boosted.
• Exposure to infected individuals: Living with or caring for someone with COVID-19, or having close contact with infected people, increases transmission risk.
• Crowded or poorly ventilated indoor spaces: Spending time in crowded indoor settings with inadequate air circulation facilitates viral spread.
• Not following preventive measures: Failure to wear masks in high-risk settings, neglecting hand hygiene, or not maintaining physical distance increases exposure risk.
• Immunocompromised status: People with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to infection and develop more severe symptoms.
• Age and underlying health conditions: While anyone can get COVID-19, older adults and people with certain medical conditions face higher risks of severe illness once infected.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing COVID-19 infection is possible through a combination of public health measures, personal protective actions, and vaccination. Here are the most effective strategies to reduce your risk:

Vaccination

Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is the most effective way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Vaccines significantly reduce the risk of infection and, if breakthrough infection occurs, typically result in milder symptoms. Stay up to date with recommended vaccine doses, including booster shots, as immunity can wane over time. Consult with your healthcare provider about which vaccines are appropriate for you based on your age and health status.

Practice Good Hand Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public spaces, touching surfaces, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing. If soap and water aren’t available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content. Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth, with unwashed hands.

Wear Masks in Appropriate Settings

Wear well-fitting masks in indoor public spaces, particularly when community transmission levels are high, or when you’re in crowded areas with poor ventilation. Masks are especially important when you’re around people at higher risk for severe illness or when you cannot maintain physical distance. High-quality masks like N95s, KN95s, or KF94s provide better protection than cloth masks.

Maintain Physical Distance

Keep at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and others who are not from your household, especially in indoor settings or when people are not wearing masks. Avoid crowded places and large gatherings, particularly indoors, where virus transmission is more likely to occur.

Improve Ventilation

Ensure good air circulation in indoor spaces by opening windows, using air purifiers with HEPA filters, or using fans to improve airflow. Better ventilation reduces the concentration of viral particles in the air and lowers transmission risk. When possible, conduct activities outdoors where viral particles disperse more quickly.

Stay Home When Sick

If you develop any symptoms of COVID-19 or feel unwell, stay home and avoid contact with others. Get tested for COVID-19 and isolate yourself until you receive results and are no longer contagious. This prevents spreading the virus to others in your community, workplace, or school.

Test Regularly

Consider testing for COVID-19 before gathering with others, especially before visiting people at higher risk for severe illness. Rapid at-home tests are widely available and can help identify infections early. If you’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19, get tested even if you don’t have symptoms.

Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, phones, keyboards, and countertops. While surface transmission is less common than respiratory transmission, maintaining clean environments contributes to overall prevention efforts.

Monitor Your Health

Be alert to COVID-19 symptoms and monitor your health regularly, especially if you’ve been in situations where exposure was possible. Knowing the symptoms helps you identify potential infection early and take appropriate action to protect yourself and others.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do COVID-19 symptoms typically start?

COVID-19 symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus, with the average onset occurring around 4-5 days post-exposure. However, some people may develop symptoms earlier or later than this timeframe, and some infected individuals never develop any symptoms at all (asymptomatic cases).

What are the first signs of COVID-19?

The first signs of COVID-19 vary among individuals, but commonly include fever or chills, fatigue, sore throat, headache, and body aches. Some people notice loss of taste or smell as their first symptom, while others may develop a dry cough early in the infection. The initial symptoms can resemble a cold or flu.

How long do COVID-19 symptoms last?

For most people with mild to moderate COVID-19, symptoms last about 1-2 weeks. However, recovery time varies significantly depending on the severity of illness and individual factors. Some symptoms, particularly fatigue, cough, and loss of taste or smell, may persist for weeks or months after the initial infection, a condition known as “long COVID” or post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC).

Can you have COVID-19 without symptoms?

Yes, it’s possible to have COVID-19 without developing any symptoms, known as being asymptomatic. Studies suggest that a significant percentage of infected individuals never develop symptoms but can still transmit the virus to others. This is why testing, vaccination, and preventive measures remain important even when you feel healthy.

What are the most common symptoms of COVID-19?

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever or chills, cough, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, body aches, headache, and sore throat. Shortness of breath, congestion or runny nose, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are also frequently reported but slightly less common.

What symptoms indicate I should seek emergency care?

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that’s severe or worsening, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion or inability to stay awake, bluish lips or face, or inability to wake or stay awake. These symptoms may indicate serious complications requiring urgent medical intervention.

How is COVID-19 different from the flu or a cold?

While COVID-19, flu, and colds share some similar symptoms like cough, fatigue, and body aches, COVID-19 is more likely to cause loss of taste or smell, which is uncommon with colds or flu. COVID-19 symptoms also tend to develop more gradually than flu symptoms. Additionally, COVID-19 is generally more severe than the common cold and has a higher risk of serious complications. Testing is the only definitive way to distinguish between these illnesses.

Should I get tested if I have mild symptoms?

Yes, you should get tested for COVID-19 even if you have only mild symptoms. Testing helps confirm whether you have COVID-19, which is important for appropriate isolation, informing close contacts who may have been exposed, and seeking medical guidance if needed. Early detection also helps track community spread and protect vulnerable individuals.

Can COVID-19 symptoms come and go?

Yes, COVID-19 symptoms can fluctuate throughout the course of illness. Some people feel better for a day or two before symptoms worsen again. Symptoms like fever may come and go, and fatigue can vary in intensity. Some individuals experience waves of symptoms over several weeks, particularly those who develop long COVID.

Are COVID-19 symptoms different in vaccinated people?

Vaccinated individuals who experience breakthrough infections typically have milder symptoms and shorter illness duration compared to unvaccinated people. Vaccinated people are also less likely to develop severe symptoms requiring hospitalization. However, they can still experience the full range of COVID-19 symptoms, though usually in a less severe form.

What are the three new symptoms of COVID-19?

As COVID-19 variants have evolved, the symptom profile has shifted somewhat. More recent variants have shown increased rates of sore throat, runny nose, and sneezing – symptoms that were initially less associated with COVID-19 but are now more commonly reported. These symptoms can make COVID-19 harder to distinguish from common colds, emphasizing the importance of testing when symptoms develop.

How can I tell if my symptoms are from COVID-19 or allergies?

Allergies typically cause itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, and clear nasal discharge without fever, and symptoms often occur seasonally or after specific exposures. COVID-19 is more likely to cause fever, body aches, loss of taste or smell, and fatigue. However, symptoms can overlap, so if you’re uncertain or have additional symptoms beyond typical allergies, getting tested for COVID-19 is recommended.

References:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – COVID-19 Symptoms
• World Health Organization (WHO) – Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)
• Mayo Clinic – COVID-19: Symptoms and Causes
• National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
• NHS – Coronavirus (COVID-19) Symptoms