Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all become hyper-aware if we develop a fever, cough or shortness of breath. But COVID-19 has also offered up some unique symptoms, such as complete loss of taste or smell, and some uncommon occurrences: what has become known as COVID toes.

What exactly are COVID toes? Our expert Sara Mateen, DPM AACFAS, a podiatrist at Hackensack University Medical Center, gives us the latest data on this unusual phenomenon.

What Are COVID Toes?

“COVID toes are a rare condition where the toes will appear red or purple, and the patient may experience swelling or numbness to one or more of the toes,” says Dr. Mateen. While this symptom can develop at any age, it is most common in children, teens and young adults. Many people who experience COVID toes do not develop any traditional symptoms associated with the illness—and if they do, the symptoms are mild.

What Causes COVID Toes?

There is no clear answer to what causes COVID toes. Some early research within the medical community indicated that there isn’t any connection between COVID and the toe condition at all. But Dr. Mateen points out: “COVID toes could be a sign that your immune system is working to fight the infection.”

Medical research shows many other diseases, such as measles, cause rashes. However, these illnesses generally cause very distinctive rashes. There does not appear to be a single COVID rash, making it difficult to pinpoint its cause or correlate it directly to the COVID-19 virus.

If Not COVID, Then What?

If the toe condition is not caused by COVID-19, what could it be? “There is a condition called chilblains, a cold weather ailment that occurs if you stand on wet, cold ground,” Dr. Mateen says. It looks similar to COVID toes but differs from frostbite, which occurs when the skin freezes. However, if you haven’t been outside in cold, wet weather, it’s unlikely to be chilblains.

What Are the Symptoms of COVID Toes?

Whatever the cause, the most common symptoms of COVID toes are swelling and redness of the skin on and around the toes, which may gradually turn a purple color. Most peoples’ toes don’t feel different, rather they just have a different appearance.

Dr. Mateen says other symptoms may include:

• Blisters
• Itching
• Pain

How Do You Treat COVID Toes?

COVID toes are not a sign of a life-threatening condition. They will generally go away on their own in about two weeks. “If you experience pain and itching, you can apply hydrocortisone cream or take an antihistamine for symptom relief,” says Dr. Mateen.

When to See a Doctor

“If the pain and itching don’t recede or get worse, you should see your doctor,” says Dr. Mateen. 

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately:

• Struggling to breath
• Experiencing confusion or a sudden change in mental state
• Suffering from chest pain or pressure
• Feeling exhausted and unable to stay awake

While COVID toes are generally just an unsightly condition, if you notice these symptoms, consider taking a COVID test and following all current guidelines if the test is positive. “If you see signs of COVID toes but test negative for COVID, you should see your doctor to verify it’s an immune response and not something else,” Dr. Mateen says.

Next Steps & Resources

• Meet our source: Sara Mateen, DPM AACFAS
• To make an appointment with a primary care doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Learn more about primary care services at Hackensack Meridian Health