Does diarrhea occur with the Coronavirus?

Diarrhea can occur with an infection with the coronavirus (COVID-19). Although the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are respiratory problems, such as coughing and shortness of breath, gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea can also occur.

Studies have shown that a significant number of patients with COVID-19 experience gastrointestinal symptoms. An article published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology reported that approximately 31.9% of patients with COVID-19 had gastrointestinal symptoms, with diarrhea being the most common .

The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, can infect the digestive tract via the ACE2 receptors that are present in high concentrations in the gut. This can lead to inflammation and gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting .

A study in The Lancet noted that in some patients with COVID-19, diarrhea can be an early symptom, sometimes even before respiratory symptoms appear. This highlights the importance of recognizing gastrointestinal symptoms as possible indicators of COVID-19 infection .

Diarrhea is a recognized symptom of COVID-19, although it is less frequently discussed than respiratory symptoms. It is important to take gastrointestinal symptoms seriously, especially during a pandemic, as they can be a sign of COVID-19 infection.

Source: https://journals.lww.com/ajg/fulltext/2023/10001/s3608_prevalence_and_impact_of_gastrointestinal.3835.aspx

Source: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langas/article/PIIS2468-1253(20)30126-6/fulltext

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-07-15 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024