It seems that the coronavirus is still going strong months after ‘flattening the curve’, and experts warn that we could see a second wave of infections soon. While older adults and patients with severe underlying medical conditions are at a much higher risk for developing any serious complications from COVID-19 illness, it is still important for everyone to learn more about the virus and to contact their private GP and get tested if they develop any symptoms of the COVID-19 illness.
What Are The Symptoms To Watch For?
While we have heard many stories online and in the news about what symptoms we should be aware of, it’s always best to check with your private GP for a full list of recent COVID-19 symptoms. People with COVID-19 often report symptoms ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms typically appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. The COVID-19 symptoms to watch for include:
- Fever Or Chills
- New and Continuous Cough
- Shortness Of Breath Or Difficulty Breathing
- New Loss Or Change in Sense Of Taste Or Smell
- Loss Of Appetite
- Fatigue
- Muscle Or Body Aches
- Headache
- Sore Throat
- Congestion Or Runny Nose
- Nausea Or Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
This list could change depending on the PHE and World Health Organisation’s research.
When Should You Seek Emergency Medical Attention?
There are some emergency warning signs for COVID-19 that you should look for and, if you are showing any of these signs, you should seek emergency medical care immediately. These include:
- Difficulty Breathing
- Persistent Pain Or Pressure In The Chest
- Confusion
- Inability To Wake Or Stay Awake
- Bluish Lips Or Face
When contacting your local emergency facility, be sure to notify them that you are seeking care because you believe that you have, or might have, COVID-19.
What Is The Difference Between Influenza (Flu) And COVID-19?
The symptoms of Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are remarkably similar and, although they are both highly contagious respiratory illnesses, they are caused by two completely different viruses. According to the WHO, ‘COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses.’
It can be difficult to tell the difference between Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 based on the symptoms alone, which is why you should contact your private GP for COVID-19 testing.
Contact Northway Clinic
To learn more about COVID-19 testing, contact Northway Clinic today and speak to a healthcare professional who can answer any questions you might have.
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