You probably know by now that general body and muscle aches are a common symptom of COVID-19, but many have experienced other, more prevalent symptoms in the beginning stages of the virus. So, what are the most common, early signs of COVID-19?

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

What Symptoms Will I Experience First?

A recent study at the University of Southern California showed that most COVID-19 symptoms occur in this order: fever, cough and muscle pain, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. In many cases, fever is the first symptom to pop up when dealing with the coronavirus.

It’s very much worth noting, though, that COVID-19 symptoms vary on a case-by-case basis. While fever is generally the first symptom to pop up, there have been many cases where those who have tested positive for COVID-19 have shown no symptoms. This is why it’s so important to follow the necessary health-safety precautions, which we’ve listed below.

Health-Safety Precautions to Follow

• Wear a mask in public.
• Remain six feet apart from others 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.

Is Back Pain an Early Symptom of COVID-19?

Not usually, but 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. Back and muscle pains aren’t the only symptoms to watch out for, though, when it comes to COVID-19. We’ve listed some more common symptoms below.

Other Common COVID-19 Symptoms

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

COVID-19, to say the least, is an extremely finicky, tricky and serious virus. If you are experiencing back pain and have been recently exposed to COVID-19, schedule a test at our AFC Urgent Care FarragutASAP! We’re here for you now and always.