Sudden skin sensitivity to touch, medically termed allodynia or hyperesthesia, can be a perplexing and uncomfortable experience. This sensation involves feeling pain or discomfort from stimuli that would not typically cause such a reaction, such as light touch, clothing, or even air movement. Understanding the potential causes behind this abrupt change is important for finding appropriate relief. This article explores the connection between sudden skin sensitivity and COVID-19.
Is Skin Sensitivity a COVID Symptom?
Sudden skin sensitivity to touch has been reported in individuals with COVID-19. This symptom, often described as a burning, tingling, or aching sensation, can manifest during the acute phase of the infection or persist as part of Long COVID.
Research has indicated that this skin hypersensitivity, also known as cutaneous hyperesthesia, can appear within two to three days after the onset of general COVID-19 symptoms, though in some cases, it has been the first sign of infection. While not one of the most commonly reported symptoms, it has been observed in various patient populations. For instance, an Argentine registry noted allodynia or cutaneous hyperesthesia in 16.9% of COVID-19 patients.
This increased skin sensitivity can affect different body areas, with the abdomen and back frequently mentioned as primary sites. The duration of this hyperesthesia has varied significantly among individuals, ranging from a single day to as long as six months in some reported cases.
How COVID Affects Skin Sensation
The mechanisms behind COVID-19-induced skin sensitivity involve several biological pathways. One significant factor is systemic inflammation, a widespread immune response triggered by the viral infection. The body’s immune system, in its effort to fight the SARS-CoV-2 virus, releases pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are signaling molecules that can lead to widespread inflammation throughout the body, including the nervous system.
This systemic inflammation can lead to neuroinflammation, or inflammation within the nervous system. SARS-CoV-2 may directly invade the central nervous system (CNS) through various routes, including olfactory pathways, or indirectly cause neurological damage through immune dysregulation and inflammation. Sustained activation of brain immune cells, such as microglia and astrocytes, can contribute to prolonged immune dysregulation within the CNS, potentially leading to long-term brain dysfunction and altered sensory processing.
Direct viral impact on nerve endings, or neuropathy, is another potential mechanism. The virus can affect peripheral nerves, leading to nerve damage or dysfunction that manifests as altered skin sensations. Some research suggests that the SARS-CoV-2 virus may directly infect endothelial cells, which line blood vessels, leading to their death and a loss of capillaries, potentially causing hypoxia and damage to the blood-brain barrier.
Immune system dysregulation plays a role, as an overactive immune response can create a pro-inflammatory environment that damages the blood-brain barrier, myelin sheath (the protective covering of nerves), and axonal membranes. The release of self-antigens from damaged tissues can further activate autoreactive T-cells, potentially triggering chronic and progressive neurological conditions. Central nervous system sensitization, where the nervous system becomes overly responsive to stimuli, can also contribute to allodynia.
Relief Measures and Medical Guidance
Managing sudden skin sensitivity linked to COVID-19 involves a combination of practical measures and professional medical advice. For immediate discomfort, wearing loose-fitting clothing made from soft, natural fibers can help minimize irritation from touch. Gentle skin care practices, such as using mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers, can also support skin barrier health and reduce sensitivity. Avoiding specific triggers is also important.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may offer symptomatic relief for general aches and pains associated with COVID-19, including some forms of skin discomfort. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication, especially when dealing with a complex condition like post-COVID symptoms. For some patients, specific medications like gabapentin or pregabalin, typically used for neuropathic pain, have provided relief from cutaneous hyperalgesia.
It is important to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, new neurological signs appear, or if the pain becomes severe or debilitating. Any persistent symptoms after a COVID-19 infection warrant a medical evaluation. Healthcare professionals can provide a proper diagnosis and personalized management plan, as the underlying causes and appropriate treatments for skin sensitivity can vary. Consulting a dermatology provider is also recommended for skin symptoms during or after a COVID-19 infection.