COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, presents with a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Many individuals experience a mild illness and recover at home. However, understanding when symptoms warrant medical attention is important for timely treatment.
Emergency Warning Signs
Severe symptoms signal an immediate need for emergency medical care, prompting a call to 911 or a visit to the nearest emergency room. These signs include trouble breathing, such as gasping or struggling for air, even at rest. Persistent pain or pressure in the chest is another serious indicator.
New confusion or an inability to wake or stay awake also require immediate evaluation. Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds can indicate dangerously low oxygen levels. If any of these symptoms appear, seek immediate medical attention.
When to Contact Your Doctor
If COVID-19 symptoms are concerning but do not require an emergency room visit, contact your healthcare provider. Symptoms that are worsening or persisting, such as a high temperature that does not decrease with over-the-counter medication or returns after several days, warrant a medical consultation. A cough that intensifies or prevents talking or sleeping also indicates a need for professional advice.
Other concerning signs include severe fatigue, or symptoms of dehydration like reduced urination or dizziness. Your doctor can provide guidance on managing symptoms at home and determine if further evaluation or specific treatments, such as antiviral medications, are appropriate, especially since these treatments are most effective when started early in the illness.
High-Risk Factors to Consider
Certain underlying conditions and demographic factors increase the likelihood of developing severe COVID-19, lowering the threshold for seeking medical attention. Age is a risk factor, with individuals 50 years and older facing a higher risk of severe outcomes, which increases substantially for those over 65 years. Underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes (both type 1 and type 2), chronic lung diseases including asthma and COPD, and chronic kidney disease also elevate the risk of severe illness.
Obesity is another factor that can increase the risk of hospitalization from COVID-19, with the risk rising as body mass index (BMI) increases. Individuals with a compromised immune system due to medical conditions or treatments are also at a higher risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes. People with these factors should be vigilant about their symptoms and consider contacting their healthcare provider even for milder symptoms.
Preparing for Medical Attention
If seeking medical care for COVID-19 symptoms, a few preparatory steps can streamline the process and ensure safety. Call ahead to your doctor’s office or the emergency room if possible, informing them of your symptoms and that you may have COVID-19. Upon arrival at a medical facility, wearing a well-fitting mask, preferably an N95 or KN95 respirator, is recommended to protect yourself and others.
Be prepared to inform staff about your symptoms and any recent COVID-19 exposure. Bringing a list of your current medications and insurance information can also be helpful for medical staff.