How is COVID-19 Treated? – March 29, 2021
As we are all well aware by now, the coronavirus is very serious. But the good news is that most people infected with the coronavirus will experience a mild case that can be treated at home.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
COVID-19 affects everyone differently. Infected people experience a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Some may not have any symptoms at all. The most common symptoms are fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. Others include:
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Loss of taste and/or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- GI issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
More serious symptoms that warrant immediate medical treatment include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain or pressure in the chest
- Confusion
- Excessive sleepiness or inability to wake up
- Blue lips or face
At-Home Coronavirus Treatment
Most people with COVID-19 are able to recover after a few weeks at home without hospital care. If you test positive, you will need to follow the advice of your doctor. The following recommendations are merely guidelines and are not meant to replace medical care.
Quarantine. Staying home is critical to prevent spreading the illness to anyone else. If you live with other people, be sure to isolate yourself from them as much as possible. Use your own dedicated bathroom if you can. If you have to share a bathroom, it should be disinfected after every use. Wash your hands frequently and avoid sharing dishes, towels, bedding, or any other personal items. If you do need to come into contact with anyone for any reason, wear a mask and a face shield if possible.
Rest. Rest gives your immune system the energy it needs to fight off the virus.
Hydrate. If you have a fever, vomiting or diarrhea, this is especially important as all of these symptoms can cause severe dehydration. Stick to water as much as possible—sugary and caffeinated beverages can be counterproductive to staying hydrated.
Take over-the-counter medications. Acetaminophen, or Tylenol, is a fever reducer as well as a pain reliever. It can help alleviate muscle aches, headaches or a sore throat. Do not take any new medications without the supervision of your doctor.
Drink tea. Tea or warm water with honey can help soothe a sore throat and relieve congestion that may be causing a cough.
Hospital Coronavirus Treatment
You do not need to go to the ER for mild symptoms like a low-grade fever or cough. You will likely be sent home if you do show up with these mild symptoms. However, if your symptoms worsen (see above), you will need to go to the hospital, where you will be closely monitored. You may receive therapies such as IV fluids, breathing treatments, oxygen, steroids, and other medications. In very serious cases, a ventilator—to help you breathe—may be necessary.
Coronavirus Treatment Sacramento
As researchers learn more and more about the coronavirus every day, treatment is becoming more effective. However, it still poses a very serious threat—especially for those with underlying medical conditions—and every precaution should be taken to prevent it. If you have tested positive for COVID-19 and are seeking treatment for mild coronavirus symptoms, give us a call at One Community Health.
We can advise you on the best course of action over the phone or through a virtual call with one of our primary care doctors. If you already have an appointment with us and have tested positive, be sure to let us know before you come in. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Your health and the health of our Sacramento community are our top priorities.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/29/2021) by Tumisu from Pixabay
