Is This a COVID Reaction or Am I Just Overwhelmed?
At 22 years old (female, 170 cm tall, weighing 53 kg, no current medications, and a non-smoker), I contracted COVID-19 last week. My symptoms began ten days ago, leading to about five days spent in bed. As of now, I feel better overall; however, a few nights ago, I noticed a rash developing on my arm. I initially thought it was just a typical post-COVID symptom, but it has worsened and now covers both arms, my back, belly, and thighs. The rash began as small, red bumps that weren’t itchy, but now it has become quite uncomfortable. Alongside this rash, I also see bright red and purple spots that appear when I lightly scratch my skin—these resemble petechiae. The rash includes some regular raised red dots mixed in as well. Additionally, I’ve experienced some tremors in my left hand over the past couple of days, especially noticeable when my hand is elevated and in a fist; it has reached a point where holding a fork becomes difficult due to the shaking. Although I should see a doctor, my commitments to studying and working full-time make it challenging for me to take any time off.
Answers (1)
7/7/2025, 4:50:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing a concerning combination of symptoms after having COVID-19, including a worsening rash and tremors in your hand. While it’s good to hear that your overall health has improved, the new symptoms you're describing—especially the rash and tremors—should not be overlooked.
Explanation
The rash you're noticing could be related to several factors, including a post-viral reaction, an allergic response, or even other underlying conditions. The presence of petichiae (small red or purple spots) can sometimes indicate a problem with blood clotting or blood vessel health and warrants attention. The tremors in your hand can also be associated with various neurological or autoimmune conditions.
Next Steps
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your rash—note when it develops, patterns, and any other symptoms you experience like headaches, fatigue, or changes in mood or vision.
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Hydration & Skin Care: Drink plenty of water and keep your skin moisturized with gentle, unscented products to help soothe the rash. This won't resolve the concern but may provide some comfort while you assess your situation.
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Prioritize Medical Attention: While it’s understandable that your schedule is tight, these symptoms should be addressed. Consider reaching out for telemedicine services where you can consult a healthcare professional without taking time off from work or studies.
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Evaluate the Urgency: If your symptoms worsen—such as the rash becoming more painful, significantly spreading, or if the tremors get more severe—seek medical help immediately. Trust your body; if something feels off, it's better to investigate.
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Adjust Your Schedule: Try to carve out some time, even a brief slot, to seek medical advice as soon as possible, given the nature of your symptoms.
Please remember that while it can be tempting to brush off symptoms with a busy lifestyle, the body often signals when something needs attention, and it's important to listen to it.
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