Hair loss
Hair loss occurs in 3% of cases 7 to 9 months after infection and 7% at 12 months. With the Omicron variant, hair loss is reported in less than 1% of cases 3 months after primary infection.
As it happens with other illnesses or significant events in a person’s life, hair loss usually occurs 2 to 4 months after the significant episode (whether it is the infection or another event) and continues for 2 to 4 months. This symptom, which involves a significant amount of hair falling out from all over the scalp, is usually temporary.
How do we test for it ?
The cause of the hair loss can often be identified through a clinical assessment, without the need for tests. In some cases, a blood test is taken to eliminate other causes of hair loss, such as vitamin deficiencies. In other cases, a dermatologist will take a sample from the area to rule out specific causes of hair loss not related to COVID-19. After talking to your primary care physician, you can consult a dermatologist if your symptoms are persistent or debilitating.
How is it treated ?
Recommendations, such as using a mild shampoo, should be followed. If there is a large amount of hair loss and it causes psychological distress, stronger treatments are available on the recommendation of a dermatologist.
COVID toes
COVID toes, which are like chilblains, occur following a SARS-CoV-2 infection because of a poorly regulated immune response to the virus.
These lesions are usually benign and heal on their own, without treatment.
This type of skin condition is currently hard to predict and impossible to prevent. It is also difficult to tell whether the symptoms will become chronic.
How is it treated ?
This post-COVID condition, which resembles chilblains, usually disappears on its own. If there is pain, a burning sensation or another related symptom, a topical corticosteroid cream can be applied locally for a specific period of time, but the results are inconsistent. Avoid both cold temperatures – which could cause real chilblains to develop and have a negative impact on microcirculation and dryness of the skin – and very high temperatures (for example, in saunas). You should also avoid tobacco and vasoconstricting medication.
If you are in pain, a treatment to alleviate the symptoms and a visit to the dermatologist are recommended.
Other rare skin reactions
Non-symptomatic, fluctuating skin rashes with rounded lesions scattered over the body are possible and resemble some seasonal paraviral reactions. In addition, it is sometimes possible to develop shingles, a painful vesicular rash. In addition, chronic urticaria can be triggered by various infections, including COVID-19.
How is it treated ?
If you have had a persistent or fluctuating rash, even without discomfort, for more than 2 months, you should see a doctor.
If the rash causes discomfort, see a dermatologist.
