Researchers from Kings College, London examined data from about 1,600 COVID-19 patients in USA and UK. They noted what appear to be six different clusters of COVID-19 symptoms. However, this does not mean there are six different strains of the coronavirus. Although the fact the types vary in severity provides useful input to clinical management.
The Six Different Clusters of COVID-19 Symptoms
1… Flu-like, but with NO fever: Headache, loss of smell, muscle pains, cough, sore throat, chest pain, no fever.
2… Flu-like, but with fever: Headache, loss of smell, cough, sore throat, hoarseness, fever, loss of appetite.
3… Gastrointestinal: Headache, loss of smell, loss of appetite, diarrhea, sore throat, chest pain, no cough.
4… Severe level one, fatigue: Headache, loss of smell, cough, fev er, hoarseness, chest pain, fatigue.
5… Severe level two, confusion: Headache, loss of smell, loss of appetite, cough, fever, hoarseness, sore throat, chest pain, fatigue, confusion, muscle pain.
3… Severe level three, abdominal and respiratory: Headache, loss of smell, loss of appetite, cough, fever, hoarseness, sore throat, chest pain, fatigue, confusion, muscle pain, shortness of breath, diarrhea, abdominal pain.
The researchers then investigated how the six different clusters of COVID-19 symptoms relate to breathing support.
Clusters Requiring Breathing Support via Oxygen or Ventilation
The team from Kings College London identified distinct differences in the need for breathing support:
1… Clusters 1, 2 and 3 required it in 1.5%, 4.4%, and 3.3% of cases respectively
2… Clusters 4, 5, and 6 required it in 8.6%, 9.9%, and 19.8 % of cases respectively
Nearly 50% of Type 6 patients went to hospital compared to 16% in Type 1. In broad terms older, frail patients who were overweight, and had pre-existing conditions were more likely to be Type 4, 5 or six. The researchers hope these six different clusters of COVID-19 symptoms assist earlier diagnosis of severe cases.
These are remarkable revelations, and something to remember when deciding whether to seek medical advice.
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Preview Image: Patient on Ventilator Support
