Coronavirus: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Coronavirus or COVID-19 is a deathly virus and its recent outbreak in China has resulted in global pandemic all around the world. This virus is spread across the whole world resulting in death of millions of people. Corona virus usually spreads through contact or through droplets of saliva or mucus when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may also happen if a person touches his/her eyes, nose or mouth after touching something that an already infected person has touched.

SYMPTOMS OF CORONA VIRUS

It is kind of a flu hence it shares its symptoms with that of the common flu. People infected with corona virus may experience mild to moderate respiratory diseases related signs and symptoms. However, this virus has different effect on different people of different age groups. It usually takes 2-14 days for the symptoms to start appearing.

Some of the common symptoms one might experience are:

• Fever
• Dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• Body pains and aches
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Tiredness

When it comes to older people having underlying conditions, there are high chances that they may contract this virus. The best way to avoid getting infected from this virus is to stay in quarantine and practice social distancing.

DIAGNOSIS OF CORONA VIRUS

If you think you are developing even slightest signs of COVID-19, you should immediately see your doctor. You can call up the clinic and give them prior information about your symptoms so that they get ample amount of time to understand and diagnose your condition. Your doctor may also suggest you to be in quarantine (self-isolation) to prevent further risks. Let them know if you have any travel history to places with COVID-19 spread or if you have come in contact with any person having the virus or showing possible signs of the virus.

Try to avoid people and social gatherings. It is advised to practice social distancing. Wash your hands as frequently as possible with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Make sure that you use an alcohol-based rub with at-least 60% alcohol for your hands. If you feel like coughing or sneezing, do so in a closed elbow rather than using your hands. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth frequently and practice good respiratory hygiene practices.

TREATMENT FOR CORONAVIRUS

As of now, there is no vaccine or antiviral medication for COVID-19 however if the signs are mild, they usually go on their own. But it is necessary for the person to self-isolate and avoid any human contact. If your condition is deteriorating, doctors may suggest you to get admitted in hospital having quarantine facilities. Intense research about finding a permanent and effective solution for coronavirus is still on.

When it comes to tests related to detection of COVID-19, your doctor may take various samples like a sample of saliva, a throat swab or a nasal swab for lab-testing.

Treatment for coronavirus usually deals with relieving the probable symptoms and is done through methods like:

• Pain relievers
• Fluid intake
• Cough syrup
• Steroids
• Other related medication

If your condition is not serious and curable at home, your doctor may give you some special instructions such as to self-isolate yourself as much as possible from everyone and to stay at home for a specified period of time. If your condition is serious, you may need to get hospital assistance.

If you are having trouble while breathing or experiencing common flu or any related symptoms, drink lot of fluids, take rest and seek medical attention. In this serious hour, it is better to be cautious and take care before things get serious.