Ellen DeGeneres Opens Up About Her COVID-19 Experience and a Surprising Symptom
Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres recently went public about her bout with COVID-19, drawing attention to an unusual symptom she experienced: intense back pain. Despite her best efforts to stay safe during the pandemic, DeGeneres contracted the virus in December 2020 and decided to share her ordeal.
“One thing people aren’t talking about is the severe back pain associated with COVID-19. I didn’t know this was a symptom until I talked to others who experienced the same,” said DeGeneres.
Evolving List of COVID-19 Symptoms
In the early stages of the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) did not specifically mention back pain as a potential symptom of COVID-19. However, they did include muscle aches on their list. As the virus continued to spread globally, there were increasing accounts of back pain from patients, which some experts attribute in part to the sedentary lifestyle induced by lockdowns and the shift to remote work.
“The symptom list for COVID-19 is continuously evolving, making it imperative for people to stay updated and consult healthcare providers for accurate diagnosis,” notes a health expert.
Study Shows Increase in Back Pain Reports
A Malta-based study showcased a noticeable uptick in reported instances of back pain since the pandemic hit. According to the research, 49% of participants complained of back pain post-pandemic, a significant increase from the 30% who reported similar issues pre-pandemic.
However, it’s essential to understand that back pain alone is not a definitive indicator of a COVID-19 infection. Numerous other factors could contribute to backaches, including stress, poor posture, and existing medical conditions.
“Although back pain has become more commonly reported during the pandemic, it’s not a standalone symptom for COVID-19. People should consider other symptoms and consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis,” advises a healthcare professional.
The Importance of Proper Medical Consultation
In light of Ellen DeGeneres’s revelation and the increasing reports of back pain as a potential COVID-19 symptom, the importance of consulting healthcare providers for accurate diagnosis cannot be overstated. Medical professionals can provide advice tailored to individual symptoms, ruling out or confirming COVID-19 as the cause.
“If you’re experiencing symptoms like back pain along with other signs of illness, a consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan,” says a medical expert.
A Call for Support and Awareness
DeGeneres’s story not only brings light to her personal journey with COVID-19 but also serves as a call to action for people to stay informed about the ever-changing landscape of this virus.
“Your thoughts and prayers are essential. Please share this information to create more awareness about the evolving symptoms of COVID-19,” urges DeGeneres.
The talk show host’s revelation adds to the collective understanding of this virus, highlighting that our knowledge of its symptoms is still growing. Staying updated on this information is crucial as we continue to battle the pandemic.