Long Covid patients need urgent awareness about a new symptom that causes their legs to turn blue within minutes of standing, according to Indian-origin researcher Dr. Manoj Sivan. In a recent study published in the Lancet, Dr. Sivan focuses on the case of a 33-year-old man who developed acrocyanosis, a condition characterized by venous pooling of blood in the legs. The patient’s legs began to redden and turned increasingly blue with prominent veins just a minute after standing. After 10 minutes, the color became more pronounced, accompanied by a heavy, itchy sensation. However, the patient’s legs returned to their original color within two minutes of returning to a non-standing position.
The patient revealed that he had experienced this discoloration since contracting Covid-19. Further examination diagnosed him with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a condition that causes an abnormal increase in heart rate upon standing. Dr. Sivan, an Associate Clinical Professor and Honorary Consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Leeds in the UK, described this case as a striking instance of acrocyanosis in a patient who had never experienced it before his Covid-19 infection.
Dr. Sivan emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about acrocyanosis as a symptom of Long Covid and dysautonomia. Both patients and clinicians may not be aware of the link between acrocyanosis and Long Covid, which can lead to unnecessary concern among those experiencing this symptom. Long Covid affects multiple systems in the body, resulting in an array of symptoms that significantly impact patients’ ability to carry out daily activities. It also affects the autonomic nervous system responsible for regulating blood pressure and heart rate.
This news highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of the wide-ranging effects of Long Covid, including less common symptoms like acrocyanosis. By expanding knowledge about these symptoms, healthcare professionals can provide appropriate support and care for Long Covid patients. Education and awareness initiatives can help patients and their families better navigate the challenges and possible manifestations of the condition. Overall, this research emphasizes the importance of comprehensive medical attention for Long Covid patients to ensure their holistic well-being.
