COVID-19 Symptoms: Common Signs, Early Symptoms, and When to Get Tested

COVID-19 Symptoms: Common Signs, Early Symptoms, and When to Get Tested

COVID-19 symptoms can vary widely—from mild cold-like signs to more serious health problems. Some people experience only minor discomfort, while others develop symptoms that require medical care.

This guide explains the most common COVID-19 symptoms, early warning signs, how they differ from a cold or flu, and when you should consider testing or medical help.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical diagnosis or treatment. Always follow guidance from healthcare professionals and public health authorities.

 

Table of Contents

1. Common COVID-19 Symptoms
2. Early Symptoms to Watch For
3. COVID-19 vs Cold vs Flu
4. Less Common Symptoms
5. When to Get Tested or Seek Care
6. What to Do If You Have Symptoms
7. Quick Summary

1) Common COVID-19 Symptoms

The most commonly reported COVID-19 symptoms include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough (often dry)
• Fatigue or unusual tiredness
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Muscle or body aches
• Nasal congestion or runny nose

2) Early Symptoms to Watch For

Early COVID-19 symptoms often resemble a mild cold and may appear 2–5 days after exposure. Common early signs include:

Mild fever or feeling feverish

Some people notice a slight increase in body temperature rather than a high fever.

Fatigue and low energy

Feeling unusually tired, even without heavy activity, is a frequent early symptom.

Sore throat or dry cough

These symptoms can start mildly and gradually worsen over a few days.

3) COVID-19 vs Cold vs Flu

Symptom	COVID-19	Cold	Flu
Fever	Common	Rare	Common
Fatigue	Common	Mild	Common
Loss of taste or smell	Possible	Rare	Rare

4) Less Common Symptoms

• Loss of taste or smell
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Skin rash (rare)

5) When to Get Tested or Seek Medical Care

Consider COVID-19 testing if you have symptoms and:

• Had close contact with someone who tested positive
• Symptoms are worsening or not improving
• Live with or care for high-risk individuals

Seek urgent medical care if you experience: difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips or face.

6) What to Do If You Have Symptoms

1. Stay home and limit contact with others
2. Monitor symptoms and temperature
3. Rest and stay hydrated
4. Follow local health authority guidance
5. Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen

 

Quick Summary

✔ COVID-19 symptoms range from mild cold-like signs to more serious illness.
✔ Early symptoms often include fever, fatigue, sore throat, and cough.
✔ Testing and medical advice are recommended if symptoms persist or worsen.