COVID-19 is known to cause many long-lasting and recurring health conditions for patients. Some of these conditions are mild while others can hamper one’s everyday life and one such condition is COVID toes. Many people in the past few months have complained of ulcer or necrosis on their toes after recovering from the virus.

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Recently, a teenager from Scotland reported that he had been experiencing the condition for the past nine months, due to which he could not wear shoes. Cases have been reported from other places too.  So, before we start panicking for another among 100 hundred reasons the coronavirus has given us to worry, let us understand what COVID toes really are.

What are COVID toes?

COVID toe is a condition in which ulcer-like patches develop on the fingers and toes. As per news-medical.net, it appears to be more common on the toes and begins with a bright red colouration on the fingers or toes, which then gradually turns purple. It can start from one toe and affect the other toe and fingers as well.

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What causes COVID toes

While many people have reported this condition only after being infected with COVID, it can not be certainly called a cause behind this. Several studies are being conducted to study more on the condition.

However, another theory suggests that the condition may not be a direct result of COVID-19, as per medicalnewstoday.com. Instead, the researchers focus on the possibility that the condition, like many others, is a result of lifestyle changes brought on by the lockdown, such as walking barefoot in homes; inactivity, and increased time spent in sedentary positions.

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Symptoms

1- Discolouration or redness in toes/fingers

2- Blisters, itching, pain in toes

3- Pus or necrosis under the skin

Due to a lack of research and data about the condition, not much is known about the treatment of the COVID toes. Readers are advised to seek professional medical help if they notice any change in their body, especially after recovering from COVID.

Note: Do not apply any ointment or home remedy on the affected area without consulting your doctor.