The OMICRON variant of coronavirus is a new cause of concern in India owing to a sharp surge in cases along with the Delta variant of the virus.   |  Photo Credit: iStock Images
Key Highlights
- The OMICRON variant of coronavirus is a new cause of concern in India owing to a sharp surge in cases along with the Delta variant of the virus.
- This variant is known to spread at a faster pace, with minimal contact, and is deemed immune to vaccines as well.
- The symptoms of OMICRON infection are different from the telltale COVID-19 symptoms that include loss of taste and smell, fever, and flu.
New Delhi: The OMICRON variant of coronavirus is a new cause of concern in India owing to a sharp surge in cases along with the Delta variant of the virus. This variant is known to spread at a faster pace, with minimal contact, and is deemed immune to vaccines as well. Although OMICRON is known to cause only mild infections, it is rendering people vulnerable. And what’s worse, the symptoms of OMICRON infection are different from the telltale COVID-19 symptoms that include loss of taste and smell, fever, and flu. Amidst this, a group of experts at Stanford University discovered a new symptom of this infection. Keep reading.
“Our study showed evidence that the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 can directly infect the inner ear,” said Konstantina Stankovic, MD, PhD, an inner ear researcher, and chair of the otolaryngology department. https://t.co/IdNO7NrKM6#COVID19 #Otolaryngology
— Stanford Medicine (@StanfordMed) January 9, 2022
What are the symptoms of OMICRON infection?
When it comes to the diagnosis of an infection, one needs to keep an eye out for the symptoms. And the OMICRON variant is known to affect many body parts ranging from the eyes to the heart and brain as well. However, according to experts, some signs can appear in the ears as well.
Experts at Stanford University tested an internal ear model of COVID-positive patients to understand how the virus is affecting the system. They discovered that patients are also complaining of ear pain and tingling sensations inside – a symptom that has not been yet linked to the virus. In case you are experiencing earache, ringing, whistle-like, tingling sensations in the ear, it could be a signal to get tested for coronavirus. And what’s worse, this one is appearing most in fully-vaccinated patients.
Besides this, other symptoms of the OMICRON variant include:
- Chills
- Congestion
- Scratchy throat
- Body ache
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Night sweats
- Mild to severe fever
- Cough
- Running nose
- Fatigue
- Headache
Dr. Konstantina Stankovic stressed on patients getting tested as soon as possible if problems related to sound and hearing are encountered. If ignored or left unattended for too long, the infection may even result in hearing loss.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a professional healthcare provider if you have any specific questions about any medical matter.