Treatments For Covid 19

Overview

COVID-19 is an illness caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2. It affects the lungs and airways, and can also affect other parts of the body. Most people get better with rest and self-care at home, but some may need medical treatment, especially if they are at higher risk.

COVID-19 has spread around the world and has affected millions of people. It is now a common infection, though many people have some protection from vaccination or past infection.

Anyone can get COVID-19, but people at higher risk for severe illness include older adults, people with underlying health conditions (such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system), and pregnant women. However, even healthy people can become seriously ill.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Loss of taste or smell
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Symptoms in children

• Most children have mild symptoms or none at all. Possible symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, abdominal pain, and rash. In rare cases, children can develop a serious inflammatory condition, so contact a doctor if your child has a high and persistent fever, rash, or red eyes.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have typical symptoms like fever and cough, but they can also show confusion, dizziness, falling, or a change in their usual behavior. They may not always have a fever.

Causes

Main causes

• Infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus
• Transmission through respiratory droplets from an infected person, usually when they cough, sneeze, talk, or sing.

Risk factors

• Close contact with someone who has COVID-19
• Being older (especially over 65)
• Having underlying health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, or a weakened immune system
• Being unvaccinated or not up to date on COVID-19 vaccines
• Living or working in crowded settings

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have emergency symptoms (see above), call your local emergency number right away.
• If you have trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips or face, seek emergency care immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a positive test or symptoms and you are at high risk for severe illness, contact your healthcare provider for advice and possible treatment.
• If your symptoms are not improving after a few days, or you feel worse, contact your doctor.

Diagnosis

COVID-19 is usually diagnosed with a test that checks for the virus, often from a nose or throat swab. You may also be diagnosed based on your symptoms and exposure history, especially during times when the virus is widespread.

Tests that may be done

• PCR test (a nose or throat swab sent to a lab)
• Rapid antigen test (a swab that gives results in minutes)

What to expect at your appointment

If you get tested, you may wait in a clinic, drive-through site, or at home. The test is usually quick, though your nose may feel uncomfortable for a moment. Results can take from minutes to a few days depending on the test.

Treatment

There is no universal cure for COVID-19, but there are treatments that can help. For most people, the best treatment is rest, fluids, and fever relief at home. For those at high risk of severe illness, a doctor may prescribe antiviral medicines early in the illness. In the hospital, treatments may include oxygen, other medicines, and supportive care. Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

Self-care at home

• Rest as much as you can.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Use a cool compress or take a lukewarm bath to lower fever, and ask your pharmacist or doctor about safe fever-reducing medicines.
• Monitor your symptoms. Use a thermometer if you have one, and note if breathing becomes harder.
• Isolate from others in your home and wear a mask if you need to be around them.

Medical treatments

Treatment for COVID-19 depends on how sick you are. If you are at high risk of becoming seriously ill, your healthcare provider may offer a course of antiviral medicines taken soon after symptoms start. These are not a home remedy and must be prescribed and monitored. In the hospital, patients may receive supplemental oxygen, medicines to reduce inflammation, and fluids. Some patients with very low oxygen may be given a higher level of support called mechanical ventilation. The choice of treatment depends on your individual situation and should be decided by a qualified healthcare team. Do not seek or take any medicine specifically for COVID-19 unless it has been prescribed for you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a treatment for COVID-19. In rare cases, someone with severe COVID-19 may need a procedure to help with breathing or other complications, but this is not a standard treatment.

Living with this condition

While you recover, separate yourself from others in your home, rest, and follow your healthcare provider's advice. You may feel tired or weak for a while. It is normal to take time to regain your strength. Keep in touch with your healthcare team if you have questions.

Lifestyle tips

• Get plenty of sleep and avoid heavy physical activity until you feel better.
• Try light stretching or deep breathing if it feels comfortable.
• Keep your room well ventilated and wash your hands often.
• Use a pulse oximeter at home if your doctor recommends it to monitor your oxygen levels.

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and protein to help your body recover. Drink extra water or broth. Once you feel better, begin gentle activity like short walks, and increase slowly. Listen to your body and rest when you need to.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Having COVID-19 can be stressful and lonely, especially if you have to isolate. It is completely normal to feel anxious, scared, or sad. Talk to friends or family by phone or video, and if you feel overwhelmed, contact a mental health support line. In an emergency, call your local emergency number. You are not alone.

Prevention

Yes, COVID-19 can often be prevented. The most effective way is to get vaccinated and stay up to date with recommended booster doses. You can also reduce the risk by washing your hands regularly, wearing a mask in crowded or high-risk places, keeping distance from people who are sick, and improving ventilation indoors.

Vaccines

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. They greatly reduce the chance of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. The vaccine is recommended for almost everyone, including pregnant people and those with health conditions. Talk to your healthcare provider about the right timing for you and any booster doses.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for COVID-19 in healthy people. Testing is used when you have symptoms, have been exposed, or need a test before travel or a medical procedure.

Complications

If left untreated

• Pneumonia (a lung infection)
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (severe breathing failure)
• Blood clots in the lungs, legs, or other organs
• Heart problems, including inflammation of the heart muscle
• Kidney injury
• Long COVID, where symptoms last for weeks or months

Long-term outlook

Most people with COVID-19 recover fully without any long-term problems. Even for those who need hospital care, many improve and go home. However, COVID-19 can be serious, which is why prevention, vaccination, and early care are so important. If you recover at home, be patient with yourself, and seek medical help if you feel worse.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.