Can COVID-19 cause skin itching?
COVID-19 refers to infection caused by the novel coronavirus. Generally, novel coronavirus infection does not cause skin itching.
In the early stages, novel coronavirus infection may present as fever, often accompanied by fatigue, loss of appetite, and headache. Respiratory symptoms may include sore throat or cough, which later often becomes a dry cough with yellow phlegm. Some patients may also experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. In addition to gastrointestinal issues, some individuals may develop conjunctival congestion and inflammation. Skin itching is generally not observed. However, skin itching in COVID-19 patients might occur due to taking multiple antipyretics or traditional Chinese medicines, leading to drug interactions, allergic reactions, and subsequent skin itching.
Skin itching could also result from excessively dry skin and is commonly associated with skin conditions such as allergic dermatitis or urticaria. It may also be triggered by allergic factors and is significantly related to endocrine disorders. If skin itching occurs, it is recommended to visit the dermatology department at a hospital, identify the underlying cause, and then proceed with appropriate treatment, including taking anti-allergy medications as prescribed by a doctor. Maintaining good skin hygiene, keeping the skin well-moisturized, and wearing loose, breathable clothing are also important.
Generally, novel coronavirus infection does not cause skin itching. It is important to maintain skin cleanliness and hygiene, keep the skin moisturized, and wear loose, breathable clothing.