How I Knew I Had COVID: Rare Symptoms that May Indicate COVID

How did I know I had COVID19? I suspected, but I did not know when I woke up to a swollen face that looked like a balloon. At this point, I felt 100%. I thought I could have developed a late in life shellfish allergy, and was grateful that only my face was affected. My airways were not affected at all. To get to the bottom of it, I took an IgE test, which are antibodies your body produces when you have a shellfish allergy, NEGATIVE! By the time I received my negative IgE results, I was on day 6 and the common COVID symptoms were in full effect.

I am an ICU nurse with 3 years of doctorate anesthesia training. I am using my education to self-medicate, consulting with close friends who are also healthcare professionals, and seeking the advice of my primary care provider (PCP). I am recording my daily journey and will share my entire journey at the end. I will continue to add updates for even more in-depth details of my treatment as I am progressing.

Today is day 9 of covid and many of the traditional symptoms began during days 2-5 after my facial swelling subsided. My most prevalent symptoms are weakness, fatigue, and the most concerning side effect …. chest burning! My chest literally feels like it is on fire when the antihistamines wear off. I do not have any shortness of breath, but the fire is intense enough to wake me from my sleep. Corona is a beast. Tomorrow is day 10. I am taking Asprin prophylactically to prevent blood clots, but I do not underestimate the potential long term side effects this virus may cause.

What is one of the primary complications leading to death in the younger population because of COVID? Pulmonary embolus! This is a blood clot that moves into your lungs and can be fatal if not aggressively and appropriately treated. Why did my face swell? In a nutshell …. an overactive immune system can cause histamine release, which can cause facial swelling and even damage your airways, heart, etc. Your own body is fighting so hard that it actually attacks itself.

I was able to complete a job interview on day 6, but it took everything I had out of me. I am trying to stay focused and continue my job search despite the virus. I have to balance remaining dedicated and allowing my body to rest. I am trying to find a job that aligns with my passion for creativity, leadership, and networking. Wish me luck with my COVID battle and my job search!