COVID-19 is one of the most severe viruses that has hit the world in recent years. According to the World Health Organization, at least 2 million people have died from the virus. In the United States, there have been over 200,000 deaths. The virus has caused a great deal of panic and anxiety for many people.
There are several symptoms associated with COVID. These include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. However, not all cases require a trip to the emergency room.
What should you do if you think you are sick with COVID-19?
The first step is to call your doctor. They will be able to give you specific instructions on what to do next. Sometimes, they refer you to an urgent care center or the emergency room.
If you have a fever, coughing, or difficulty breathing, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. These are the most common symptoms associated with COVID-19 and can indicate a more severe condition.
It is also important to remember that not all cases of COVID-19 are severe. Many people experience mild symptoms and recover without any complications. However, it is still essential to seek medical attention if you think you may have the virus. This will help ensure that you get the proper treatment and care.
What are the symptoms of severe COVID-19?
There are different COVID symptoms you should look out for, such as:
- A fever that spikes over 101 degrees Fahrenheit
- Prolonged coughing that produces phlegm or mucus
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
You must go to the emergency room immediately if you experience any of these severe symptoms. This is the best way to ensure you get the proper treatment and care.
Severe cases of COVID-19 can lead to pneumonia, organ failure, and even death. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
What if you have risk factors for severe disease?
When COVID gets worse, there are risk factors you can expect to happen.
Such risk factors are:
Stay in tune with your body.
Monitoring your body’s progress from time to time. Keep in mind that your body is very vulnerable once you have COVID-19 because it is still trying to build immunity against the virus. If you experience any of these severe symptoms, please go to the emergency room immediately.
When in doubt, see a healthcare provider.
The best thing to do when you have COVID-19 is to go and see a healthcare provider. You should also be going to the er with COVID-19. They will be able to give you the best advice on what to do next. Sometimes, they refer you to an urgent care center or the ER for COVID.
Consider getting a pulse oximeter.
A pulse oximeter is a device that measures how much oxygen is in your blood. This is important because one of the severe symptoms of COVID-19 is difficulty breathing. If you have a pulse oximeter at home, you can check your oxygen levels regularly. If they drop below 94%, it is time to seek medical attention.
What to do when others around you have already tested positive for COVID-19?
Once the people you recently went out with or are surrounded with tests positive for COVID, you need to do the following:
- Get tested yourself as soon as possible.
- Start self-isolation and quarantine immediately.
- Monitor your symptoms closely.
- If you develop any symptoms, call your doctor or go to the emergency room for COVID right away.
Do not hesitate to seek medical attention if you think you may have COVID-19. The sooner you get treated, the better your chances are of making a full recovery.
What happens if I go to the ER for COVID-19?
If you think you have COVID-19 and go to the emergency room, you can expect the following:
- A medical evaluation by a healthcare professional.
- A chest x-ray or CT scan to look for pneumonia.
- Blood tests to check for the presence of the virus.
- Oxygen therapy if your oxygen levels are low.
- IV fluids if you are dehydrated.
- Antiviral medications if your doctor thinks they will help.
You will likely be admitted to the hospital if your condition is severe. This is so that you can receive around-the-clock care. Sometimes, people with COVID-19 need to be put on a ventilator to help them breathe.
What happens when I am admitted to the hospital?
After going to the ER and you test positive for COVID, the hospital will admit you right away.
Once admitted, you will be:
- Put in a room away from other patients.
- You will also be given a mask to wear at all times.
- There will be frequent check-ups on your vital signs and symptoms.
- The hospital staff will also work to ensure you are comfortable and have everything you need.
There will be no definite time or date for you to be discharged from the hospital. It all depends on how well you respond to treatment and if your symptoms improve.
Have Yourself Checked for COVID!
COVID-19 is a serious virus that can lead to severe illness and even death. It is essential to seek medical attention immediately if you think you may have the virus. Remember to call your doctor first and go to the emergency room if you experience any severe symptoms.
At Aether Health – Kingwood ER, we offer COVID-19 testing for those who think they may have the virus. We also offer treatment for those who are sick and need hospitalization. Our goal is to help you get better and keep you comfortable while you fight the virus. Contact us today if you think you may have COVID-19!
