You are probably also concerned about the risk of becoming infected with the coronavirus (COVID-19). The coronavirus is a family of viruses that cause illnesses such as the common cold, MERS, SARS and other respiratory diseases. The new coronavirus can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, and cases have now been reported almost all over the world. If you think you may be infected with the coronavirus, it is very important that you stay at home so that you do not run the risk of infecting others. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for the coronavirus yet, and no medicine that can cure it. However, you can combat some of the symptoms yourself, so that you at least feel a little better while you are sick at home.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Recognizing the symptoms
Step 1. Notice if you have a cough, runny nose, or trouble breathing
The coronavirus is a respiratory infection, which is why coughing and having a runny nose are the most common symptoms. Both a dry cough and a cough with mucus can be symptoms. Call your doctor if you think your cough and runny nose might be caused by the coronavirus.
- Find out if you may have been around someone who was sick. If so, you are more likely to be infected with a disease.
- If you must cough, try to avoid being around people with weakened immune systems or at high risk of complications, such as the elderly, newborns and children, pregnant women, and people taking immune system suppressants.
Step 2. Take your temperature to see if you have a fever
Fever is a common symptom of the coronavirus, so you should always check your temperature if you think you may be infected with the virus. A fever of more than 38 degrees can indicate that you are infected with the coronavirus or have another infection. If you have a fever, call your doctor to discuss your symptoms.
If you have a fever, avoid contact with other people as you are likely to be contagious
Step 3. Seek medical attention if you have breathing problems or experience shortness of breath
COVID-19 can cause breathing problems, which is always a serious symptom. Contact a doctor or seek emergency medical care immediately if you are having trouble breathing. You may have a serious infection, such as COVID-19.
You may need additional treatments for breathing problems, so always see a doctor if you have shortness of breath
Tip:
COVID-19 causes pneumonia in some patients, so don't hesitate to contact a doctor if you have any breathing problems.
Step 4. Know that sore throat and runny nose could indicate another infection
Although COVID-19 is a respiratory infection, it usually does not cause a sore throat or runny nose. The most common symptoms are cough, fever and shortness of breath. Other symptoms of a respiratory infection probably indicate that you have another illness, such as a cold or the flu. Call your doctor to be sure.
It's understandable to be nervous about COVID-19 if you're feeling nauseous. However, you probably don't need to worry if you experience symptoms other than a fever, cough, and shortness of breath
Part 2 of 3: Getting an official diagnosis
Step 1. Call your doctor if you think you could be infected with the coronavirus
Tell the doctor you have symptoms and ask if you have a long time to come for an exam. Your doctor may advise you to stay at home and rest, but your doctor may also ask you to go to a test site to determine whether you are indeed infected. Follow the doctor's instructions so that you can recover as quickly as possible, and to reduce the chance of spreading the virus as much as possible.
An antibody test is another type of test that can tell you if you've had an infection before. Antibody tests cannot be used to diagnose a current infection
Tip:
Tell your doctor if you have recently traveled or come into contact with animals. This can help the doctor determine whether or not your symptoms could be caused by the coronavirus.
Step 2. Have a laboratory test for coronavirus if your doctor recommends it
The doctor can take a nasal swab of your mucus or do blood tests to check whether you are infected. This makes it easier to rule out other infections and confirm a possible infection with the coronavirus. Have the doctor take a nose swab or draw blood so that he or she can make a proper diagnosis.
- Having a nose swab or blood drawn can be annoying, but in principle it doesn't hurt.
- The doctor will probably isolate you at home while your illness is examined and monitored. The doctor will check whether you are infected with the coronavirus.
Did you know?
Your doctor will ask you to isolate yourself in a room away from other household members. Make sure you don't share kitchen utensils, towels and cups with others and wear a mask when you are around others.
Step 3. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience shortness of breath
Don't panic, but a serious infection with the coronavirus can cause complications such as pneumonia. If you're having trouble breathing, see your doctor or emergency room or emergency room as soon as possible. If you are alone, ask for someone to help you so that you don't have any problems along the way and arrive safely.
Breathing problems can indicate complications and your doctor can make sure you get the treatment you need to recover
Part 3 of 3: Treating the coronavirus
Step 1. Stay at home so you don't run the risk of infecting others
You are probably contagious, so if you feel sick, stay home. If you are infected, just stay home to get sick. Let your friends and family know you have a contagious disease and tell them not to visit.
- Wear a face mask when you go to the doctor to avoid spreading the virus.
- Ask your doctor when you can safely resume your normal activities. In principle, you can be contagious for between two and ten days.
Step 2. Look good so your body can recover
The best thing you can do for yourself is to rest and relax while your body is fighting the infection. Lie in bed or on the couch, raising your upper body with the help of pillows. Keep a blanket handy in case you get cold.
You can prevent coughing fits by lying with your upper body a little higher. If you don't have enough pillows, fold a few blankets or towels for support
Step 3. If necessary, take medication from the drugstore for the pain and fever
The coronavirus often causes fever and pain in your muscles and joints. Fortunately, over-the-counter medicines such as ibuprofen (under the brand names Advil or Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help. Consult with your doctor to make sure you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever without any problems. Take the medicine as directed in the package inserts.
Whatever medicine you take, don't take more than you can safely take according to the package insert, even if you don't start to feel better
Step 4. Use a humidifier to relieve your throat and airways
You probably suffer from a sore throat and the production of excess mucus. A humidifier can help with that. The mist from the humidifier will keep your throat and airways moist, which can help relieve the sore throat. In addition, the moisture helps to thin the mucus.
- For safe use of the humidifier, follow the directions on the package.
- Wash the humidifier carefully with soap and water in between to prevent mildew or other mold from growing in it.
Step 5. Drink a lot to help your body heal
Moisture helps your body fight the infection and thins the mucus. Keep your body hydrated by drinking cold or warm water or tea. In addition, eat clear soup to get extra fluids.