Ellen DeGeneres, the beloved chat show host, recently revealed that she experienced “severe” back pain as a symptom of COVID-19. This came as a surprise to her, as she was following all the “proper precautions” when she contracted the virus in December 2020.
DeGeneres took some time away from the spotlight amidst allegations of a toxic workplace environment on her show. She decided to focus on her passion for animal conservation and had just completed The Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund in Rwanda. However, she was then diagnosed with COVID-19 and shared an update on social media.
In a recent health update, DeGeneres expressed her astonishment at discovering that back pain can be a symptom of the virus. She said, “What they don’t tell you is that you will have severe back pain. I had no notion that was a symptom until I spoke with a few other people.”
It is interesting to note that at the beginning of the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) did not formally recognize back pain as a symptom of COVID-19. However, they did mention “muscle or bodily aches” as a possible symptom. Other early warning signs included fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
According to the NHS, back pain and other joint and muscle discomfort can be worsened by illnesses like COVID-19. The lack of regular movement due to illness and reduced physical activity can lead to aches, stiffness, and muscle weakness. Additionally, the rise in work-from-home opportunities during the pandemic has contributed to an increase in back pain.
A study conducted in Malta showed that 49% of people who had never experienced back pain before COVID-19 reported having it after contracting the virus. Furthermore, with restrictions on socializing and limited outdoor activities, people have become more sedentary, spending long hours sitting down.
It is crucial to understand that back pain does not necessarily indicate COVID-19. Various factors can cause backaches, and if accompanied by symptoms such as nasal congestion, coughing, sneezing, or fever, muscle discomfort may be attributed to other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia.
If you experience back pain along with shooting or stabbing sensations, pain radiating down your leg, pins and needles sensation, a lack of ability to relax, or a constant dull ache, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.
As we continue to navigate through these challenging times, it is important to prioritize our health and seek medical advice when needed. Stay informed, stay safe!
