COVID-19 Symptoms: What to Watch For and When to Seek Help
Table of Contents
- Common Symptoms of COVID-19
- Severe Symptoms and When to Seek Help
- Long COVID Symptoms
- Preventive Measures
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Common Symptoms of COVID-19
COVID-19 symptoms can vary widely, but the most common include:
- Fever or chills: A high temperature is one of the most frequent symptoms.
- Cough: Usually a dry cough, but it can also be productive.
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activities.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak, even with little activity.
- Muscle or body aches: General aches and pains, similar to flu symptoms.
- Loss of taste or smell: A sudden loss of taste (ageusia) or smell (anosmia) is a key symptom.
- Sore throat: Irritation or pain in the throat.
- Headache: Persistent or severe headaches.
- Congestion or runny nose: Similar to cold symptoms, but can accompany other COVID-19 signs.
- Nausea or vomiting: Some individuals experience gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Diarrhea: Less common, but possible in some cases.
2. Severe Symptoms and When to Seek Help
If you experience any of the following severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
- Difficulty breathing: Persistent trouble breathing or shortness of breath.
- Chest pain or pressure: Ongoing pain or pressure in the chest that doesn't go away.
- Confusion: New confusion or difficulty staying awake.
- Bluish lips or face: A sign of oxygen deprivation and requires immediate care.
- Persistent pain in the abdomen: This could indicate severe infection or inflammation.
3. Long COVID Symptoms
Some individuals experience symptoms that persist for weeks or months after the initial infection. Common "Long COVID" symptoms include:
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness that affects daily activities.
- Brain fog: Difficulty concentrating or memory problems.
- Joint or muscle pain: Ongoing pain in the muscles or joints.
- Shortness of breath: Continued difficulty breathing, even after recovery.
- Sleep issues: Problems with sleeping or insomnia.
4. Preventive Measures
To protect yourself and others from COVID-19:
- Get vaccinated and stay up-to-date with booster shots.
- Wear a mask in crowded or enclosed spaces.
- Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and maintain social distancing when possible.
- Clean and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I have symptoms of COVID-19?
If you experience symptoms, stay home and avoid contact with others. Get tested for COVID-19 as soon as possible and follow the guidance of your healthcare provider based on the test results.
How long do symptoms of COVID-19 last?
Symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks. Most people recover within two weeks, but some may experience prolonged symptoms or complications.
Can vaccinated individuals still experience symptoms of COVID-19?
Yes, vaccinated individuals can still contract COVID-19, but the symptoms are often milder compared to those who are unvaccinated. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.