COVID-19 is similar to other viruses you might get during cold and flu season, and most people can recover at home without needing medical attention. Current treatment recommendations are to manage individual symptoms.
Common symptoms can include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue, Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Managing fever
Use over-the-counter medications, such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol, to manage a fever or pain.
Managing cough and shortness of breath
Over-the-counter medications used for upper respiratory infections may help alleviate symptoms.
Those medications include guaifenesin (Mucinex), pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and dextromethorphan (Robitussin, Delsym).
Some medications include multiple drugs; contact your physician if you plan to take more than one medication to manage your symptoms.
Other treatments that may help include:
- Using a humidifier
- Using a nasal rinse
- Using a chest rub, such as Vicks VapoRub
- Taking a hot shower
- Propping yourself up with pillows
- Practice slow, deep breathing in through the nose, out through the mouth
Maintaining healthy habits
Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. In general, you should drink 8-12 8oz. glasses of fluid each day. If you are experiencing stomach upset, you should drink even more by continuously sipping smaller amounts of salt containing fluids such as sports drinks. Get plenty of rest, and wash your hands frequently. Incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet.
- Spinach and nuts are rich in vitamin E.
- Citrus fruits, cantaloupe, watermelon and berries are rich in vitamin C.
Incorporate exercises as you’re able.
Eliminate stressors as best you can; keep connected to your friends and family through phone calls or other technology.
Call your physician or the emergency department
Please call your physician or the Spencer Hospital Emergency Department at 712-264-6100 if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Respiratory distress: Monitor your breathing by asking yourself, “How is my breathing? Do I feel comfortable?” If you cannot talk in full sentences, you need to see your physician.
- Gastrointestinal distress: If you cannot keep fluids or food in your system due to vomiting or diarrhea.
- Fever or 100.4 or higher that is not responding to acetaminophen (Tylenol).