Could You Be Asymptomatic For COVID-19

Since March, 5.6 million people have been diagnosed with coronavirus. While research is still in development, a portion of these people have shown no symptoms of coronavirus at all, making them asymptomatic. This is very concerning to many, as a person who feels healthy is less likely to suspect that they have COVID-19. Because of this, they will join the general public and put others at risk of infection. 

Typical and Unusual COVID-19 Symptoms 

Even if you may be asymptomatic, it is still good to have knowledge of coronavirus symptoms. If you have been exposed to COVID-19 with a friend, you may be able to notice that they are displaying symptoms. This could indicate that you are asymptomatic. 

COVID-19 symptoms can range in severity. Some COVID-19 symptoms can present as mild symptoms, while others are more severe. If you came into contact with an individual who had coronavirus, your symptoms would start showing in 2-14 days after exposure. The CDC verified symptoms include: 

• Fever
• Chills
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulties breathing
• Fatigue
• Body Aches
• Headaches 
• Sore throat 
• Congestion 
• Runny nose 
  

There are other COVID-19 symptoms that are more unusual than others. COVID-19 can cause a new loss of taste or smell without nasal congestion. Coronavirus can also cause eye problems, such as enlargement, sensitivity to light, swollen eyelids, and irritation. You could also experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms like a loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

Some of these symptoms have more to do with the age of the patient with coronavirus. Older patients could experience confusion because of coronavirus. Younger patients with coronavirus can develop hives, rashes, or itchy, painful lesions on their feet and hands. 

COVID-19 symptoms vary for everyone. While some might have certain symptoms, others will have different ones. Some people do not show symptoms at all. These people are asymptomatic. 

Are You Asymptomatic? 

WHO’s technical lead and infectious disease epidemiologist Van Kerkhove verified that there are infected individuals who are “truly asymptomatic.” However, countries that have done detailed contact tracing have not found secondary transmissions. “It’s very rare,” she states. However, the Harvard Global Health Institute reported that some evidence reports that people are the most infectious before they become symptomatic. Both sources continue to research asymptomatic patients.

If you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, you will want to self-quarantine for 14 days. Even if you feel absolutely healthy, there is a chance you could be asymptomatic. The only way you will be able to tell if you are truly asymptomatic is by getting tested for COVID-19. A typical COVID-19 test will tell you if you currently have coronavirus. An antibody test will tell you if you previously have had coronavirus. 

When to Get a COVID-19 Test 

If you have been in a crowded location where you may have been exposed to COVID-19, you should consider getting tested. Even if you do not show any symptoms, you might want to get a COVID-19 test or check with those who were with you to make sure they aren’t showing symptoms. If you are in the Bay Area and are concerned that you may be asymptomatic, BASS Urgent Care offers COVID-19 testing Antibody testing. After meeting with us via Telehealth video, we will determine which test is best for you. If you need a COVID-19 test, you can remain in your car for the duration of the test. You will receive your test results in 48-72 hours. To schedule a telehealth video visit with us, visit our website or call us at (925) 329-3718.