Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After COVID-19 Symptoms?

Q: Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult After COVID-19 Symptoms?

Hello： After being infected with COVID-19, some individuals may experience discomforting symptoms. <br>It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngology clinic for further evaluation. <br>Wishing you good health.

Which specialty should I see?

Hello Doctor, I contracted COVID-19 two months ago, experiencing symptoms such as cough, sore throat, body aches, loss of appetite, nausea, and difficulty breathing.
I did not seek medical attention during that time.
After recovering (with a negative rapid test), I suddenly lost my voice, and my cough worsened.
I went to the clinic for an injection and medication, and it took over two weeks to improve.

After that, one day I suddenly experienced hearing loss; all sounds seemed distant, and it felt like my head was filled with water.
My vision became blurry, and it seemed like I couldn't focus my eyes.
Pressing on the tip of my nose triggered a sneeze, and I felt like my left eyeball was about to pop out, but the next day it resolved.
However, recently the situation has worsened.
Whenever I lower my head slightly or get up from bed, I start experiencing symptoms, and the tinnitus has become severe.
Food tastes bland, and sometimes my mouth has a bitter taste.

Additionally, I have discomfort in my right foot, specifically under the third, fourth, and fifth toes, as if I'm stepping on something uncomfortable.
In the last two to three days, I've started feeling like there are bugs crawling under my skin, and I have unusual pain on the left side of my knee.
I looked online and saw that diabetes patients might have such symptoms, but I do not have a history of diabetes.
Therefore, I would like to ask you, Doctor, what could this situation be? Is there a connection between the tinnitus and the foot symptoms? Which specialist should I consult? Thank you.

Xie Mei, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/28

Dr. Hou Angting reply Family Medicine

Hello: After being infected with COVID-19, some individuals may experience discomforting symptoms.
It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngology clinic for further evaluation.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/06/28

More Info

After experiencing COVID-19, many individuals report a variety of lingering symptoms, commonly referred to as "Long COVID." Your symptoms, including loss of voice, increased coughing, ear issues, visual disturbances, and unusual sensations in your legs, are concerning and warrant further investigation.
1. Understanding Your Symptoms: The symptoms you describe, such as sudden hearing loss, a feeling of fullness in the head, and visual disturbances, could be related to several conditions. Post-viral syndromes, including vestibular dysfunction (which affects balance and spatial orientation) and auditory issues, can occur after viral infections like COVID-19. The sensation of "bugs crawling" under your skin and discomfort in your toes could be indicative of neuropathy or other neurological issues, which can also arise post-infection.

2. Consulting the Right Specialist: Given the range of symptoms you're experiencing, it would be prudent to consult a few different specialists:
- Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist: For your hearing issues, ear fullness, and any potential vestibular problems.

- Neurologist: To address the neurological symptoms, including the crawling sensation and any potential neuropathy.

- Pulmonologist: If you continue to experience respiratory symptoms or if you have concerns about lung function post-COVID.

- Primary Care Physician: They can coordinate your care and refer you to specialists as needed.

3. Potential Links Between Symptoms: While it may seem that your ear symptoms and discomfort in your feet are unrelated, they could both be manifestations of a broader issue related to your nervous system or circulation, particularly after a viral infection. COVID-19 has been associated with various neurological symptoms, and the inflammation caused by the virus can affect multiple systems in the body.

4. Importance of Timely Evaluation: It’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly, especially since your symptoms are worsening. An ENT specialist can evaluate your auditory and vestibular function, while a neurologist can assess any potential nerve-related issues. Diagnostic tests such as audiograms, MRIs, or nerve conduction studies may be necessary to determine the underlying causes of your symptoms.

5. Managing Anxiety and Stress: The anxiety stemming from your symptoms can exacerbate your experience. It’s important to address not only the physical aspects of your health but also the psychological impact of your symptoms. Consider speaking with a mental health professional if you find that anxiety is affecting your quality of life.

6. Monitoring and Follow-Up: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information will be invaluable to your healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing your condition.

In summary, your symptoms following COVID-19 are complex and warrant a multidisciplinary approach. Consulting with an ENT specialist, neurologist, and possibly a pulmonologist will help you get a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment. Remember, early intervention can significantly improve outcomes, so do not hesitate to seek medical care.

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