‘Incredibly painful,’ says Ellen DeGeneres. ‘I had no idea that was a symptom.’

Ellen DeGeneres, the renowned talk show host, has recently shared her experience of contracting COVID-19 and the unexpected symptom she encountered during her battle with the virus. In this article, we’ll delve into her story, discussing not only the challenges she faced but also shedding light on the broader context of COVID-19 symptoms.

The Unforeseen Symptom

As Ellen DeGeneres’ long-standing talk show came to a close after 19 seasons, fans around the world reflected on her career’s highs and lows. However, amidst her career transition and newfound passion for animal conservation, Ellen faced an unexpected health challenge – COVID-19.

DeGeneres, like many others, contracted the virus during the peak of the pandemic. She emphasized that she had taken all the necessary precautions to prevent infection. Despite her vigilance, she tested positive for COVID-19 in December 2020.

The Shocking Revelation

In an update shared on social media, Ellen DeGeneres revealed a symptom that caught her by surprise – severe back pain. She expressed her astonishment at experiencing this discomfort as a result of COVID-19. Her declaration drew attention to a symptom that had not been widely associated with the virus.

“I feel fantastic,” DeGeneres stated. “What they don’t tell you is that you will have severe back pain. I had no notion that was a symptom until I spoke with a few other people.”

Early Understanding of COVID-19 Symptoms

It’s important to note that during the early stages of the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) did not formally list back pain as a recognized COVID-19 symptom. Instead, they highlighted symptoms such as fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.

The Impact on Joint and Muscle Health
Ellen’s experience with back pain during her COVID-19 infection raises questions about how the virus can affect the body. The National Health Service (NHS) explains that many individuals may have had pre-existing aches and pains before contracting COVID-19. The illness could exacerbate these issues, leading to increased discomfort.

Regular physical activity is beneficial for joint and muscle health. However, individuals who are unwell with COVID-19 often become less active than usual. This reduction in physical activity can result in aches, stiffness, and muscle weakness.

Ellen DeGeneres’ revelation about her battle with COVID-19 and the unexpected symptom of back pain highlights the ever-evolving understanding of this virus. While early guidance may not have included back pain as a common symptom, it’s essential to acknowledge that COVID-19 can affect individuals in various ways.

As we continue to learn more about this virus, it serves as a reminder to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and seek medical advice if you experience any unusual symptoms during your COVID-19 journey.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is back pain a common symptom of COVID-19?

A1: Back pain was not initially listed as a common symptom of COVID-19 by health authorities. However, some individuals, including Ellen DeGeneres, have reported experiencing back pain during their COVID-19 infections.

Q2: What were the early recognized symptoms of COVID-19?

A2: In the early stages of the pandemic, common COVID-19 symptoms included fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.

Q3: How can COVID-19 affect joint and muscle health?

A3: COVID-19 can impact joint and muscle health by reducing physical activity. Individuals who are unwell with the virus tend to be less active than usual, leading to aches, stiffness, and muscle weakness.

Q4: What precautions can I take to prevent COVID-19 infection?

A4: To reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection, follow recommended guidelines such as wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, maintaining physical distance, and getting vaccinated if eligible.

Q5: Where can I find more information about COVID-19 symptoms and prevention?

A5: For comprehensive and up-to-date information on COVID-19, consult reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and your local health department.