Although the COVID pandemic has now been brought under control to some extent, this coronavirus is still among us. So when you have a cold, cough, or fever, you may be wondering, "Is this just a cold, or could it be COVID?" Some people may have COVID without any symptoms (doctors call this `asymptomatic`). Most people experience simple, mild symptoms. But some can develop serious conditions like difficulty breathing. Let's talk about this today.
What are the most common symptoms of Covid-19?
The symptoms of COVID-19 vary widely. Some people may experience mild symptoms and recover, while others may experience more severe symptoms. Symptoms can appear between 2 and 14 days after the virus enters the body.
The important thing is, you don't have to have another condition like diabetes or heart disease to have serious symptoms. Anyone can have serious symptoms.
The table below lists the most commonly seen symptoms.
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Fever or chills | Increased body temperature or feeling cold. |
| Dry cough and difficulty breathing | A cough that doesn't produce mucus, coming from deep in the chest. Difficulty breathing. |
| Feeling very tired | Extreme fatigue even without doing anything. |
| Body pain | Muscle and joint pain. |
| Headache | A severe headache, different from a normal headache. |
| Loss of smell or taste | This is a characteristic that is specific to Covid and can be seen in the early stages. |
| Sore throat | Itching and pain in the throat. |
| Nasal congestion or runny nose | A stuffy or runny nose, as in a cold. |
| Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea | Digestive system problems. |
Other unusual symptoms
In addition to these main symptoms, some people may also experience the following:
- Pink eye
- Swollen eyes
- Putting an end to art
- Blood clots
- Seizures
- Some children develop purple or blue rashes on their fingers.
- Rare conditions of the nervous system, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Emergency symptoms that require immediate attention!
If you or someone you know has any of the following symptoms, it is an emergency . You should go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ETU) immediately. It is safer for everyone to call the hospital and inform them of your condition before going.
- Severe difficulty breathing: If you feel like you can't breathe, like you're suffocating.
- Constant chest pain or pressure: If your chest feels tight or heavy.
- Lips or face turning blue/gray: This can happen when the body is not getting enough oxygen.
- Sudden memory loss: Sudden confusion, loss of place and time.
- Difficulty waking up: Being constantly drowsy or being so sleepy that it is difficult to wake up.
Covid and Stroke
Strokes have been reported in some COVID patients. Remember the FAST method to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.
- F (Face): Does one side of the face droop? Does the mouth droop when you smile?
- A (Arms): When you ask to raise both arms, does one arm drop down? Is one arm numb?
- S (Speech): Do you get slurred when you speak? Is it difficult to speak clearly?
- T (Time): If you see any of these signs , every second counts . Call 911 immediately or take the patient to a hospital.
What happens when children get COVID?
Children experience the same symptoms as adults, but the symptoms are usually less severe. Some children may have the virus without any symptoms, but they can still spread it to others.
Common symptoms among children:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
However, in rare cases, some children and young adults can develop a serious condition called Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) with COVID-19. This is similar to Kawasaki disease. It causes inflammation of the blood vessels in the body. Symptoms can include fever, body aches, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems.
What should you do if you have symptoms?
If you have mild symptoms like fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, don't panic. Do these things:
1. Stay home: Do not go out unless you need medical attention. Call your doctor for advice.
2. Isolate: Stay away from others as much as possible, even from family members. It is best if you can use a separate room and bathroom.
3. Wear a mask: If you are going to be around other people in your household, wear a well-fitting mask.
4. Get plenty of rest: Rest is very important for the body. Also, drink plenty of fluids like water, porridge, and fruit drinks.
5. Be aware of symptoms: If you feel like your symptoms are getting worse, seek medical advice immediately.
How to protect yourself from Covid?
We all know that "it is better to prevent a disease than to treat it after it has developed."
- Get vaccinated: The best way to prevent serious illness from COVID is to get the appropriate dose of vaccine for your age group. Ask your doctor for more information about this.
- Wash your hands often: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
- Keep your distance: Keep at least one meter away from others in crowded places.
- Wear a face mask: Wearing a mask in public places protects both you and others.
- Don't touch your eyes, nose, or mouth: Avoid touching your face without washing your hands.
Take-Home Message
- Symptoms of COVID-19 can range from simple things like fever and cough to more serious conditions like difficulty breathing.
- Never ignore emergency symptoms like severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, or loss of consciousness. Go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- If you have mild symptoms, stay home and rest, stay away from others, and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.
- The best ways to protect yourself from COVID are vaccination, frequent hand washing, and wearing face masks.
- If you have any doubts or questions, don't be afraid to talk to your family doctor about it.
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