Internal Medicine and COVID-19: What You Should Know
Currently, the world is dealing with over 10 million cases of coronavirus, specifically the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.
Over three million cases are still active, so the need to stay safe and cautious is as present as ever. Not all COVID-19 cases are severe. But if someone has it, they could unintentionally spread it to others that may not be so lucky.
Healthcare providers, like Dr. Shawn Veiseh, can help diagnose and advise patients on how to deal with COVID-19. With years of experience helping patients in the Beverly Hills, CA area he can answer your questions and help keep you and your loved ones healthy.
Understanding COVID-19
COVID-19 is caused by a form of coronavirus, which is a name that covers a range of respiratory illnesses. But, unlike many other strains of coronavirus, COVID-19 can be very dangerous and there is no vaccine right now.
Cases range from mild to severe and millions of people are still getting infected. Without proper protection (and if necessary medical attention) it will only continue to get worse.
COVID-19 symptoms may appear within two to 14 days, though it can also be asymptomatic. Symptoms may vary depending on the severity, but can include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Nasal congestion
- Diarrhea.
Severe cases could also include persistent chest pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, blue lips or face, and the inability to stay awake.
What you can do on your own
There are several basic methods for avoiding this virus, including:
- Wearing a face mask or covering in public to help prevent airborne respiratory droplets from spreading
- Maintaining a distance of six feet from other people
- Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitizer with an alcohol concentration of at least 60%
- Covering any coughing or sneezing
- Cleaning your home with disinfectants on commonly used surfaces such as countertops, handles, faucets, sinks, light switches, and doorknobs
If you get sick with a mild case of COVID-19 self-isolation at home is necessary, as well as getting plenty of rest. Drink lots of fluids, and use over the counter medications like aspirin to help with headaches and body aches.
When to seek medical help
Questions and concerns about COVID-19 can be addressed by healthcare professionals in person, or through telemedicine visits where patients can consult with their physicians remotely.
There are methods available to test for COVID-19. Viral tests can be administered to confirm a current infection and an antibody test can be used to determine if you’ve been infected before.
Regardless of test results, preventative measures should continue to be used to prevent infecting others or getting infected.
In the case of mild infections, self-isolation and home care will likely be recommended. In severe cases, emergency medical care will be necessary and medical staff will need to be informed about COVID-19 infections.
If you think you may be infected or want additional information contact our office to make an appointment with Dr. Veiseh today.