While many individuals experience mild COVID-19 symptoms, understanding when to seek urgent medical attention is important. Recognizing specific signs can help ensure timely intervention for severe cases.
Emergency Symptoms Requiring Immediate Medical Attention
Certain symptoms of COVID-19 indicate a need for immediate medical care. Trouble breathing, which may manifest as shortness of breath, a feeling of not getting enough air, or difficulty speaking in full sentences, warrants immediate attention if it rapidly worsens or occurs at rest.
Persistent pain or pressure in the chest is another emergency symptom. This discomfort may indicate inflammation of the heart or lung lining, or even a cardiovascular event. If chest pain is intense, spreads to the back, shoulder, left arm, or jaw, or is accompanied by vomiting or sweating, medical help should be sought without delay.
New confusion or an inability to wake or stay awake are serious warning signs. Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds indicate dangerously low oxygen levels. If any of these emergency warning signs are present, calling 911 or seeking care at the nearest emergency department is crucial.
Factors Increasing Risk of Severe COVID
Several factors can increase an individual’s likelihood of developing severe COVID-19, which may necessitate hospitalization. Age is a significant risk factor, with older adults, particularly those over 65, facing a higher risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. The risk of severe outcomes increases with advancing age, with individuals aged 50-64 also having elevated risks.
Underlying medical conditions also elevate the risk of severe COVID-19. These conditions include chronic lung diseases like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart conditions such as heart failure or coronary artery disease, and diabetes. Obesity, chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, and a weakened immune system due to medical conditions or treatments also increase vulnerability.
Pregnancy is another factor that increases the risk of severe COVID-19, with pregnant individuals being more susceptible to complications. This heightened risk can remain for at least a month after childbirth. Individuals with these risk factors should have a lower threshold for seeking medical advice, even for seemingly milder symptoms.
Preparing for a Hospital Visit
When hospital care for COVID-19 becomes necessary, some preparation can help. Call ahead to the local emergency facility if possible, informing them of your symptoms and suspected COVID-19 status. This allows staff to prepare for your arrival.
Gather essential items before leaving home, including valid photo identification and insurance information. Prepare a list of current medications, dosages, and any supplements, to provide to medical staff.
Bring a phone charger and a fully charged portable power bank, as you may be in the emergency room for an extended period. While comfort items like pillows are usually discouraged due to infection control, a few personal toiletries can enhance comfort. If you use sensory aids like glasses or hearing aids, ensure they are packed and clearly labeled.
Managing COVID at Home
For individuals experiencing mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms, home management is often appropriate. Rest and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids help recovery.
Over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce fever and ease muscle aches, headaches, and sore throats. For coughs, over-the-counter cough medications can be used.
Monitoring symptoms closely is important for those managing COVID-19 at home. This includes regularly checking for fever and being attentive to any changes in breathing or other symptoms. If shortness of breath worsens or becomes severe, medical attention should be sought. Knowing when to contact a doctor for non-emergency concerns helps ensure appropriate guidance and care.