By DR. MARY GILLIS, D.Ed.
WISH-TV | wishtv.com
Doctors are seeing an increase in a certain type of rash possibly linked to the coronavirus. They’ve coined it “COVID toes.”
The rash appears as red or purple lesions not only on the toes, but also the fingers, dermatologists say. The rash resembles a condition called chilblains, which is typically seen in winter as a response to the cold weather. The fingers and toes become red, purple and painful because they are inflamed. But chilblains is rare and we’re moving into warmer temperatures. This is what’s baffling doctors.
However, the coronavirus is all about inflammation. Doctors are seeing infected patients with inflamed hearts and blood vessels among other areas of the body.
There is good news, though. Doctors say these patients with COVID toes are doing well. They believe it’s a sign of a mild coronavirus infection because patients have not yet developed the cardinal symptoms such as dry cough, shortness of breath or low-grade fever.
Federal health officials have not included COVID toes on the official list of symptoms, but dermatologists are pushing for it to be added. And, they say if this rash appears on a person to get medical attention immediately.