COVID-19 is primarily recognized as a respiratory illness, often characterized by cough, fever, and shortness of breath. However, the SARS-CoV-2 virus can affect various other body systems beyond the lungs, including cardiovascular, renal, and nervous systems. This systemic impact means symptoms can extend beyond typical respiratory complaints, encompassing a broader range of manifestations. This includes a notable effect on the digestive system, involving stomach pain and other gastrointestinal issues.
Understanding COVID’s Digestive Impact
Stomach pain and other digestive issues are recognized symptoms of COVID-19. For some individuals, these gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms can be the initial or even sole indicators of infection, appearing before any respiratory signs. Common GI symptoms linked to COVID-19 include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. Diarrhea is often reported, sometimes presenting as loose, watery stools several times a day. Nausea and vomiting can also occur, with nausea potentially lingering for a few days.
Up to 50% of people with COVID-19 may experience GI symptoms. Abdominal pain, though less common than diarrhea or nausea, can occur, potentially due to intestinal inflammation. These digestive issues vary in severity and duration; some patients recover within days, while others’ symptoms, like diarrhea, may persist for weeks. Digestive problems can also be part of “long COVID,” where symptoms linger after acute infection.
How COVID-19 Affects the Gut
The SARS-CoV-2 virus impacts the digestive system through specific biological mechanisms. It gains entry into human cells by binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors. These ACE2 receptors are abundantly present in the respiratory tract and throughout the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in intestinal lining cells. This widespread presence allows the virus to directly infect and replicate within intestinal cells.
Infection of intestinal cells can lead to gut inflammation. The body’s immune response to the virus in the gut can trigger inflammatory chemicals, contributing to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. COVID-19 can also disrupt the delicate balance of microorganisms in the gut, known as the gut microbiome. This disruption, or dysbiosis, can allow harmful bacteria to proliferate, contributing to digestive discomfort and inflammation. An altered gut environment can also lead to increased intestinal permeability, potentially exacerbating systemic inflammatory responses.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Digestive Symptoms
If you experience digestive symptoms potentially related to COVID-19, monitor them carefully. For mild symptoms, staying hydrated and resting can help manage discomfort. However, certain signs indicate professional medical attention is warranted.
Seek immediate medical advice for severe or persistent abdominal pain, as this could signal a more serious underlying issue. Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, reduced urination, or dizziness, also require prompt medical evaluation, especially with persistent diarrhea or vomiting. If digestive symptoms are accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, seek emergency care. While many COVID-19 digestive symptoms are manageable at home, recognizing these warning signs and seeking timely medical attention can prevent complications.