Suspecting COVID? First steps you should take

COVID-19 cases are rapidly surging across the country right now. While we continue coming across grim reports of rising numbers, even the slightest of symptoms can spark off a worry.

While it’s not true that every symptom you have right now is a COVID symptom, taking precautions from the very first day can actually save matters from turning worse. It can also limit the spread of infection.

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As doctors have been suggesting, over 90% of COVID cases can be easily managed at home and not every patient requires hospitalization. Even in suspected COVID cases and testing being delayed, steps taken at the right time can mitigate the COVID risk by a huge margin, and prevent panic at the last moment. With healthcare resources being stretched beyond measure, early preparedness can save matters from turning worse.

So, what should the first steps be if you suspect a COVID infection at home? What should you do as and when you test positive? Here’s what doctors actually want people to know right now, and keep a ‘COVID plan’ ready:

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The second wave of infections is seeing increased precedence of cases detected in the younger population- who are more likely to miss out or caching typical symptoms, and get severe symptoms later.

The first thing to do is to be doubly aware of the possible signs and symptoms. It’s a relatively new virus, and we do not have an exhaustive list of symptoms. Nonetheless, a high fever, congestion, breathlessness, unusual skin rashes, runny, red eyes, vomiting, muscle pain, a sore throat should all be signed to remain cautious of, at least right now.

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Testing should be done on priority. While spotting symptoms can be of utmost concern, do note the order of appearance of your symptoms. Many, sadly, are also testing negative, even with symptoms because of tests taken too early.

The incubation period of the virus, i.e. time taken from contracting the virus to onset of symptoms is 2-14 days. The most appropriate time to take the test would be 3 days after signs of infection start to show up. Of course, tests can also be taken early, but do remember there can always be a chance of getting false negatives.

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Quarantine and isolation should actually start from the first day you start spotting symptoms. Do not wait for the test results to come up and instead, start following from the initial days symptoms start to show up.

Wear a mask and isolate yourself from your immediate family members. Even if it turns out to be something non-COVID, it will be a good way to stop the spread of contagious disease and get some much-needed rest.

If you share quarters, and cannot isolate alone, quarantine yourself in a well-ventilated room which would have a different bathroom. Divide utilities, utensils that you would be using for the next two weeks. Do not share them with the rest of the family at any cost. The ones around you should be getting a COVID test done too, to avoid exposure risk.

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Do not turn to self-medication and have only what is needed. However, if you can, stock up on essential health trackers and keep checking your vitals regularly. Oximeter, contactless thermometer, BP machines, sanitizing wipes, solutions should always be there.

Steam inhalation should also be diligently followed, after every few hours.

If you have pre-existing health conditions, or over the age of 50, get in touch with your family physician and ask if there are any additional medicines that you should be taking.

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While the nature of the virus remains ever-changing, most doctors suggest that the progression of the disease starts off with a mild upper respiratory tract infection, common to all viruses, followed by throat irritability followed by fever.

Experts also say that for the first five days, symptoms like fever and weakness should be most watched out for.

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Since oxygen deprivation is a big issue being observed right now, SpO2 levels should be constantly monitored. Levels below 94 is a red signal. However, not every case requires hospitalization. Mild and moderate oxygen fluctuations can be well-managed at home, till the time hospitalized care isn’t available. Breathing exercises, walking, sleeping in the prone position can also help.

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Even if your infection is mild and you are allowed to recuperate at home, a COVID patient would require help from someone. Ideally, a caregiver should be someone who’s young and healthy and has no pre-existing medical condition which could compromise his/her immunity. If you live at home alone, it’s just as crucial to have help handy and have someone check in on you. From meals, groceries, medications and emergency situations, you need to keep a support person updated at all times.

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