The coronavirus pandemic, which reached its peak in 2020, dramatically altered the way we live. For many, staying optimistic seemed like the only way to cope with the emotional toll. The pandemic caused widespread job losses as businesses shuttered, leaving countless people struggling to make ends meet. While the virus is no longer as prevalent as it once was, it hasn’t disappeared entirely, and its lingering effects continue to impact lives.

Many individuals who contracted COVID-19 have faced long-term symptoms, including lung and breathing issues. However, as doctors learn more about the virus, new symptoms and aftereffects have come to light. Among these is severe back pain—something that wasn’t widely recognized as a symptom in the early days of the pandemic but is now gaining attention as a potential side effect for some individuals.

One such person who experienced this unexpected symptom is none other than Ellen DeGeneres. The beloved host of The Ellen DeGeneres Show entertained audiences for nearly two decades before deciding to conclude her show in 2022. Reflecting on her decision, Ellen shared, “I truly have felt like next season was the right time to bring it to a close. The truth is, I always trust my instincts. My instinct told me it’s time.”

Ellen contracted COVID-19 in December 2020, despite taking all the recommended precautions. At the time, she assured fans that she was feeling “100%” recovered. However, she also opened up about an unexpected symptom that caught her completely off guard: severe back pain. This revelation came during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! alongside Billie Joe Armstrong and musical guests Jimmie Allen and Brad Paisley.

“I feel fantastic now,” Ellen said during the interview. “But what they don’t tell you is that you will have severe back pain. I had no notion that was a symptom until I spoke with a few other people.” She expressed her surprise, asking, “Who would have thought? How so? I’m having back pain.”

At the onset of the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) did not list back pain as a symptom of COVID-19. The official list included fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. While “muscle or bodily aches” were acknowledged, severe back pain wasn’t initially recognized as a specific symptom of the virus. However, as time went on, an increasing number of individuals reported experiencing this issue, prompting further investigation by medical professionals.

The NHS has also weighed in on this symptom. According to their website, “Many patients will have had some aches and pains before becoming unwell with COVID. Illness may have resurfaced or worsened these difficulties.” This insight suggests that pre-existing conditions could potentially be exacerbated by the virus, leading to symptoms like severe back pain.

For Ellen, the experience was an unexpected challenge, but fortunately, she recovered quickly and returned to her usual self. Her openness about this symptom has helped bring awareness to an aspect of COVID-19 that many may not have known about. Her story underscores the importance of sharing personal experiences to help others recognize and address similar issues.

As more individuals come forward with their own accounts of severe back and muscle pain following COVID-19, medical professionals continue to study the virus’s long-term effects. The evolving understanding of COVID-19 highlights the need for ongoing research and public awareness, as symptoms and complications may manifest differently in each person.

Ellen’s experience serves as a reminder that even after recovering from the virus, it’s important to pay attention to lingering symptoms and seek medical advice when needed. The pandemic has taught us the value of community, empathy, and shared knowledge in navigating an unprecedented global health crisis.

If you or someone you know is experiencing unusual symptoms following COVID-19, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. Staying informed and proactive is key to addressing these challenges effectively.

Ellen’s candidness about her health not only sheds light on a lesser-known symptom but also reinforces the importance of taking care of one’s physical and mental well-being. Her resilience and willingness to share her story remind us that we’re all in this together, navigating the complexities of life during and after a pandemic.

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