Top COVID Symptoms to Watch For This December 2022

Examining the Evolving Symptoms of COVID-19 in December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has entered its third calendar year and the virus continues to mutate into new variants. With each variant, the most common symptoms reported seem to change. As we head into December 2022, it's important to understand the latest symptoms seen with current prominent variants.

Top Symptoms in December 2022

According to recent studies, the current top 5 COVID symptoms based on omicron variants as of December 2022 are:

1. Sore throat
2. Runny nose
3. Stuffy nose
4. Sneezing
5. Persistent cough

These cold-like symptoms differ from original COVID variants that caused more lower respiratory tract infections. It highlights the continued evolution of the virus towards more transmissibility and upper respiratory colonization.

Why Are Symptoms Changing?

There are a few key reasons why COVID symptom trends keep changing:

• Viral mutations leading to different strains like omicron variants
• Increasing natural and vaccine-derived immunity globally
• Newer variants spreading faster and wider
• Younger unvaccinated groups becoming infected

As new variants emerge through mutations, the spike proteins change shape. This alters the virus' pathway into the body, often favoring the throat and nose rather than the lungs. The virus is adapting to spread more easily.

Omicron Symptoms vs. Delta

Comparing omicron and delta variant symptoms shows the ongoing evolution:

• Omicron: sore throat, runny nose, headache, fatigue, sneezing
• Delta: cough, loss of smell, fever, headache, sore throat

Omicron causes more upper respiratory infection signs like sore throat and congestion, while delta had more lower airway or neurological symptoms. But both can still cause the full range of COVID manifestations.

Common COVID Symptom Progression

COVID symptoms tend to follow a typical timeline of progression, though manifestations can vary:

Days 1-3

In the first 1-3 days after infection, the virus incubates and early symptoms start appearing. These include:

• Scratchy throat
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Fever

This is considered the presymptomatic phase when viral load is peaking but symptoms are still mild. There is high risk of transmitting COVID to others at this stage.

Days 4-8

After 3-4 days, more common signs of illness emerge:

• Persistent cough
• High fever
• Shortness of breath
• Chills and body aches
• Sore throat
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (less common)

For mild infections, symptoms may start improving after 5 days. Those with more severe illness see worsening respiratory symptoms in this window.

Days 8+

By days 8-12, most people getting over mild COVID see symptoms diminishing, including:

• Cough beginning to resolve
• Fever reducing
• Congestion and sore throat improving
• Fatigue and body aches easing

However, the cough and tiredness can linger for many weeks after for some. The most critical period is 6-12 days when severe disease can manifest.

Other Common and Less Common Symptoms

Besides the most prevalent symptoms outlined already, some other short-term signs reported with COVID include:

Flu-like Symptoms

• Chills
• Body ache and pain
• Headache

Gastrointestinal

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Respiratory

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest pain

Rarer symptoms occasionally seen: conjunctivitis, rashes, dizziness, blood clots.

Severity of Symptoms

Younger healthy adults tend to experience mild flu-like symptoms that resolve within 7-10 days. Elderly over 65 years or those with chronic diseases are at higher risk of severe COVID complications like pneumonia or respiratory failure.

Long COVID Symptoms and Issues

While most recover fully within 2-3 weeks, a percentage of patients experience persistent symptoms and organ dysfunction lasting months or indefinitely, known as "long COVID." Common long-lasting symptoms include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Joint and chest pain
• Headaches
• Heart palpitations
• Brain fog, difficulty concentrating
• Anxiety and depression

Other long COVID effects seen in studies:

• Heart: myocarditis, irregular heart rhythms
• Lungs: reduced diffusion capacity, pulmonary fibrosis
• Kidneys: subclinical acute kidney injury
• Dermatological: hair loss, rashes
• Neurological: loss of smell and taste

Those with severe COVID requiring hospitalization are at higher risk. But even those with mild initial infections can experience prolonged recovery periods or complications.

When to Seek Medical Care

Most mild-moderate COVID cases can be managed at home in self-isolation. However, emergency care should be sought for symptoms like:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath at rest
• Persistent chest pain or tightness
• Cough with bloody sputum
• Blue lips or face
• Confusion and delirium
• Inability to stay awake
• High fever not improving with medications

Young children, elderly over 65 years, pregnant women, and immunocompromised patients should have a low threshold for seeking medical help if symptoms are concerning.

Preventing COVID Infection

To avoid developing COVID symptoms, high-risk individuals should take precautions like:

• Get up to date on COVID vaccinations and boosters.
• Avoid crowded indoor spaces and wear a mask.
• Maintain good hand hygiene.
• Increase indoor ventilation.
• Get tested if experiencing any potential symptoms.
• Isolate immediately if infected to prevent spread.

While COVID continues spreading, being vigilant about monitoring symptoms and protecting yourself remains key, especially for vulnerable groups.

The Bottom Line

The predominant symptoms associated with COVID-19 have changed over time as new variants emerge. In December 2022, sore throat, runny nose, congestion, sneezing, and cough are most reported initially. Knowing the latest common signs can help ensure proper isolation and care if infected.

While COVID continues evolving, getting vaccinated, wearing masks, and practicing preventive hygiene remain the best protective measures according to public health experts. Stay alert and follow recommended precautions this winter season.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.