When we think of common COVID-19 symptoms, what most often comes to mind are a cough, a fever, body aches or exhaustion, the usual flu-related symptoms. However, gastrointestinal or stomach issues can also indicate COVID-19 infection. We just do not talk much or hear a lot about this side of COVID-19, for whatever reason. I think we tend to keep these kinds of struggles, many of them bathroom-related, private.
It is estimated that around 1 out of every 5 people who test positive for COVID-19 had at least one gastrointestinal symptom. When the virus enters the body, it attacks cells in your airways, but researchers think it also can harm the cells in your digestive tract and liver.
Markers of stomach upset associated with COVID-19 can include losing your appetite, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. It can sometimes feel more like a nasty case of food poisoning, where symptoms last for several days. If you have these symptoms, it does not necessarily mean you have COVID-19, but you should pay attention and test yourself for COVID-19. If you are feeling sick with stomach upset, be sure to drink a lot of fluids to avoid dehydration. You can also eat bland foods, like toast, applesauce, white rice, oatmeal, boiled or baked potatoes or bananas. These foods help to replenish carbohydrates and can help limit your need to use the bathroom.
Usually, if your stomach problems are because of food poisoning or something more minor, you should feel better within 48 hours. If you don’t, you should call your doctor as it could be an early sign of COVID-19. If you have signs of severe dehydration, like dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth, if you have bloody diarrhea, severe stomach pain or if you are feverish, seek medical care immediately.
COVID-19 infection can be different in each person, which is why it makes it tricky to monitor and diagnose. Sometimes, individuals sick with COVID-19 may report stomach symptoms and no respiratory symptoms. Other times, the stomach problems show up first, followed by the usual respiratory issues.
The new “FLiRT” variants of COVID-19 are causing a summer surge of cases, where people are reporting both respiratory and stomach symptoms. As always, the best way to prevent COVID-19 (and the stomach issues that may come with it), is to stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines. Social distancing, cleaning with disinfectant, handwashing, and masking are also helpful.
