How to treat COVID-19 at home? Let's be aware

Here we are again, talking about COVID-19. Perhaps you or someone in your family has developed symptoms like fever, cough, and runny nose. Don't worry. For many people, this comes on like a cold and they get better at home. But we need to know exactly what to do at home and when to see a doctor. Let's talk about it clearly.

How to treat COVID-19 at home?

If your symptoms are not too severe, meaning they can be treated at home, you should definitely do these things.

Have a good rest.

The most important thing is to get enough rest . When you sleep and rest, your body's immune system gets the strength it needs to fight this virus. Don't overexert yourself.

Stay home.

Stay home . Don't go out to work, school, classes, or the store. Staying home will help you recover faster and will also completely stop you from spreading the disease to others.

Drink plenty of fluids.

Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, fresh fruit drinks, porridge, and soup . When you have a fever, your body loses a lot of water. This can lead to dehydration. If you become dehydrated, your symptoms will worsen and other health problems may develop.

Be aware of symptoms.

Always pay attention to your symptoms . If you feel a little worse, for example, if you have difficulty breathing or chest pain, call your doctor right away. Don't go to the doctor right away, call first and get advice. The doctor may tell you to stay home, or if they tell you to come in, they can take the necessary precautions.

Ask the doctor about medication.

Ask your doctor about using a medicine like Paracetamol to reduce fever.

How can I prevent spreading the disease to others?

When you get sick, the most important thing is to avoid infecting others, especially older people (over 65) and those with other chronic illnesses (such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure).

• If possible, stay in a separate room . It's even better if you can use a separate bathroom.
• Tell your family that you are sick. Then they will stay a little distance from you.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing. Throw the used tissue in the trash immediately.
• If you are in a public place, wear a mask . If you can use a mask that fits well, such as an N95 or KN95, it will provide more protection.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds , especially before eating and after using the bathroom.
• Do not let anyone else use the dishes, cups, spoons, towels, or bedding you use.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces in your home, such as doorknobs, table tops, counters, and light switches, with disinfectant at least once a day .

How is COVID-19 treated in a hospital?

If you only have the general symptoms listed in the table above, you do not need to go to the hospital or the Emergency Department (ETU). Even if you do, you can often be sent home.

However, if your condition is more severe, the medical staff will admit you to the hospital for treatment and check for other serious problems caused by the disease. They may do the following:

• Regularly check the oxygen level in your blood by attaching a clip-like device (Pulse Oximeter) to your finger.
• Listening to your lungs with a stethoscope.
• Testing for diseases such as COVID-19, RSV, or influenza.
• Having a chest X-ray or CT scan.

If you have difficulty breathing, you will be given extra oxygen through two small tubes placed in your nostrils. In very severe cases, you may be connected to a machine, called a ventilator , that helps you breathe for you.

You will also be given fluids through a saline (IV) line in your arm to prevent dehydration. Doctors will also monitor your breathing.

Medicines given in the hospital

Doctors may prescribe some antiviral medicines to prevent symptoms from getting worse and to help you recover faster. For example:

• Ritonavir (Paxlovid) with Nirmatrelvir
• Remdesivir (Veklury)

Additionally, you may be given blood-thinning medications to prevent blood clots. If you are taking medications for other conditions (such as high blood pressure or cholesterol), your doctor will advise you whether to continue taking those medications.