What to Expect When You Get COVID-19
Being diagnosed with COVID-19 may not seem as scary as when the whole world was still reeling from the news every day and attempting to determine how to avoid the virus. But Covid is still serious, and whether you’ve had it before or not, it can cause problems for your short- and long-term health.
We at Schaumberg Immediate Care want you to know what to expect. Regardless of your age or health status, ensure you know what to look for as you work through the virus. In addition, we offer COVID testing so that you can get results immediately if you think you have contracted it.
COVID-19 101: protocol, symptoms, and signs
When you test positive for Covid, the best rule of thumb is to stay home for at least five days. This is especially true if you have symptoms. If you work with the public, you’ll want to be extra careful and avoid work until you no longer test positive.
Some of the most common symptoms you’ll be likely to experience include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Runny nose
- Loss of smell and taste
- Exhaustion
- Muscle aches
Usually, these symptoms will begin to subside after a week or so. If you have been vaccinated, chances are your symptoms will be milder, but every patient is different. After being diagnosed, it’s best to get plenty of sleep, drink fluids, and avoid contact with others as much as possible. You’ll also feel better faster if you care for yourself, so remember to rest!
What to expect at different ages
It’s important to remember that most COVID protocols are discussed with healthy adults in mind. But young children can be exposed at school, on the playground, or at daycare, just like older adults can be exposed by a caregiver or another resident in their living facility. These vulnerable populations need to look out for other important signs and symptoms.
In addition to the symptoms listed above, extreme fatigue and confusion are signs of COVID in older adults. As such, it’s best to make sure your elderly loved one is being cared for through their illness. This can help you catch any severe symptoms as early as possible.
Children with COVID-19 are likely to experience all the same symptoms as adults. Fevers are extremely likely and might become high. It’s important to monitor a child with COVID-19 and make sure they continue eating, drinking, and breathing normally while working through the illness.
How to know you’re dealing with a medical emergency
COVID-19 can still cause serious side effects, even for those who have been vaccinated, especially in vulnerable populations like children, older adults, and disabled or immunocompromised people. It’s essential to look for the signs and symptoms of a severe COVID-19 infection.
These include problems breathing, pain in the chest, problems staying conscious, and new or worsened confusion. Discoloration of the lips, skin, and nails is also a serious symptom. If you notice any of these signs in your loved one or yourself, call 911 immediately.
It’s also important to note that if you’ve been dealing with symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or weakness well beyond two weeks, COVID-19 symptoms are likely to last, and you may have long COVID-19. You should visit your provider to discuss possible treatments if this is the case.
Get COVID-19 testing today
If you or someone you care about may have COVID-19, get tested immediately. We offer antibody and virus testing here at our Schaumburg, IL, office and can ensure you receive any necessary treatment for a COVID-19 infection.
Make an appointment today by calling 847-250-1700 or visiting us online. We’re here to help!