Ellen DeGeneres, the beloved TV host, recently revealed a surprising side effect she experienced during her battle with Covid-19. In a social media update, the 64-year-old star shared her “excruciating” back pain, which she had not anticipated as a symptom of the virus.
“I feel really good. One thing they don’t tell you is you get, somehow, excruciating back pain. Didn’t know that was a symptom but I talked to some other people. Back pain. Who knew? How come? Back pain. Bad,” DeGeneres shared.
While back pain was not initially listed as a specific symptom of Covid-19, “muscle or body aches” were included. It’s important to note that at the beginning of the pandemic, less research had been conducted on the various symptoms of the virus. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) focused more on commonly reported symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
The NHS explains that back pain and other joint and muscle problems may have been exacerbated by being unwell with Covid-19. When people are unwell, they tend to be less physically active, leading to aches, stiffness, and muscle weakness. Weak muscles can cause difficulties with daily activities like standing, climbing stairs, and lifting objects.
Furthermore, long Covid, which has affected two million people in the UK alone, has been associated with back pain. The increase in working from home during the pandemic has also contributed to more people experiencing back pain. With limitations on socializing and going outside, many individuals have been less mobile and spent more time sitting down.
It’s important to remember that experiencing back pain alone does not necessarily mean you have Covid-19. Backache can be caused by various factors, and it’s crucial to consider other symptoms like nasal congestion, coughing, sneezing, and fever, to determine if it could be related to Covid-19 or another illness, such as the flu.
If you do experience back pain along with other symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice. Be aware of shooting, burning, or stabbing sensations, pain radiating down your leg, pins and needles, inability to get comfortable, or a constant dull ache associated with back pain.
While Ellen DeGeneres has recovered from Covid-19, her revelation about the surprising side effect of back pain serves as a reminder that the virus can manifest in unexpected ways. Stay informed, listen to your body, and prioritize your health during these challenging times.
