Covishield’s Rare Side Effects: What is TTS, Symptoms, and Risk Factor

The Covishield vaccine has garnered attention lately amidst discussions about rare side effects, notably Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS). This condition involves the formation of blood clots coupled with a decrease in platelet levels. Recognising the symptoms and risk factors associated with TTS is crucial for every vaccinated individual. Symptoms of TTS, such as severe headaches, blurred vision, and chest pain, can signal potential complications that require immediate medical attention. While TTS remains a rare occurrence, understanding its signs can aid in early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Let’s understand what TTS includes, its implications, and how healthcare professionals are monitoring and managing this rare but serious side effect of adenovirus vector vaccines like Covishield.

TTS Meaning & Symptoms

Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) is a severe and rare side effect of certain adenovirus vector vaccines like Covishield. TTS is characterised by low platelet levels (thrombocytopenia) and blood clot formation (thrombosis). This combination makes TTS especially dangerous because clots can obstruct blood flow to vital organs, and low platelets can result in severe bleeding. Diagnosing and managing TTS is essential to avoid severe problems in the future. Although this is still an infrequent side effect, knowledge about it can go a long way in preventing the worst from happening. TTS usually develops four to thirty days following vaccination, and the symptoms are often severe and potentially fatal. These are some symptoms of TTS: ● Severe, persistent headache ● Blurred vision ● Difficulty speaking ● Drowsiness ● Seizures or confusion ● Difficulty breathing ● Chest pain ● Leg swelling ● Persistent abdominal (stomach) pain ● Tiny blood spots under the skin, which is away from the site of injection Recognising the symptoms of TTS early and understanding its potential severity are crucial steps in ensuring timely medical intervention and preventing adverse outcomes following adenovirus vector vaccination. For those seeking to register for vaccination online, many health authorities and governments provide platforms for Vaccine Registration Online to facilitate scheduling and managing vaccine appointments efficiently

Risk Factors

Several factors influence the risk and impact of TTS following the Covishield vaccine. Key considerations include age and gender, as well as the timing of vaccine doses, underscoring the need for vigilant monitoring to enhance vaccine safety and efficacy.

Age and Gender: 

1. Young people, particularly young females, are more susceptible to TTS after Covishield vaccination.
2. TTS has been observed to be more severe in young women compared to other groups.

Timing of Vaccination: 

1. The probability of TTS is higher after the first dose of the Covishield vaccine rather than the second dose.
2. These factors highlight the importance of closely monitoring side effects, especially among vulnerable groups, to ensure the vaccine's safety and effectiveness.

Diagnosis and Treatment of TTS

To diagnose TTS, general practitioners use blood tests and imaging studies like CT scans to discover the existence of blood clots. If the patient's clinical examination indicates the possible presence of any clot in the brain, the case should be escalated to the emergency department for investigation. Treatment for TTS typically includes:

● Anticoagulant Medicines:

These drugs act singularly or together. They thin the blood and block all clotting factors to prevent new clot formation.

●Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG):

This treatment uses a blood product containing specific antibodies to prevent clot formation and manage the immune response.

●High-Dose Prednisone:

Prednisone is a steroid drug used in high doses to modulate the immune response, which plays an important role in TTS. These treatment options allow you to manage and prevent TTS symptoms. Still, the actual treatment approach will be quite different depending on the severity of the disease and the patient's requirements. Hence, it is crucial to perform reconciliation and follow-up analysis for appropriate treatment and management of TTS.

TTS Complications

TTS causes the formation of blood clots and a reduced number of platelets. These two factors can lead to further complications. Listed below are a few potential complications of TTS:

● Pulmonary Embolism:

Pulmonary embolism is when a blood clot is in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs. They constrict blood vessels supplying the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties, chest pains, and respiratory failure in extreme cases.

● Heart Attack:

Any clot forming in coronary arteries cuts off blood supply to cardiac muscles, leading to a heart attack. Some signs are chest pain, difficulty breathing, and discomfort in the upper body.

● Stroke:

A stroke can occur if the blood vessels in the brain become blocked or incompatible, causing sudden weakness, numbness, or paralysis on one side of the body. Early treatment is important in preventing stroke, as it reduces brain damage.

Staying Informed: Covishield and TTS

Covishield has addressed COVID-19, but you must be aware of the TTS as covishield vaccine effects. Anyone who experiences symptoms or has concerns must pay attention to any signs and research risk factors. It is essential to understand that professionals are always closely observing and researching Covishield vaccine details and these side effects for the welfare of the individuals. Although TTS is rare, knowing the condition means people can make choices. If you are worried about your health, consider health insurance plans as your best option. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company offers a range of insurance for every requirement. Browse our options on our website and choose the best option today!   *Standard T&C Apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale