Coronavirus outbreak has been emerging as one of the most critical pandemics of the 21st century. While there are several symptoms associated with COVID-19, respiratory distress is the most prominent symptom. While there is no cure for this condition yet, there are plenty of things one can do to avoid contracting the virus and getting infected by it.
The symptoms of the infection caused by coronavirus are very similar to those caused by any respiratory conditions like bronchitis or asthma.
While having a pre-existing respiratory condition like asthma doesn’t put you at a higher risk of contracting the fever, it will make recovery difficult as the corona fever causes respiratory distress and having a pre-existing condition makes it easier for the virus to heighten the distress.
The symptoms of COVID-19 are:
- Dry cough
- Fever
- Sore-throat
- Diarrhoea
- Rashes on the skin
- Red eyes
- Loss of sense of taste and smell
- Chest pains
- Difficulty in talking
- Difficulty in breathing
The symptoms of Asthma or bronchitis are very similar to those of COVID-19. They are:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Chest pains
- and trouble sleeping due to respiratory distress
It is common to misdiagnose one condition for another as the symptoms are very similar. If you are under respiratory distress and are facing one of the above conditions:
How will I know if my cough is a symptom of Asthma or Corona Fever?
84% of the reported cases of corona fever have a mild fever as an early stage symptom. If you have a slight fever along with cough, then, take antibiotics for 2-3 days to see if the fever subsides, if it does, it could be a general bacterial or viral infection that led to the fever. And if it doesn’t subside, consult a doctor immediately.
Using corticosteroids has helped people who have Asthma improve their condition of respiratory distress. But, the side effects of using this in these unprecedented times is that it suppresses the immune system. Thus, making you more susceptible to contracting the corona fever.
If you have cough or difficulty in breathing, use your inhaler or nebulizer as advised by your consulting physician, if the condition does not improve, then, consult a doctor immediately.
- As a preventive measure, it is advisable to stock enough medication required for a period of 30 days.
- Stay indoors as much as possible, and avoid contact with people.
- Do not use public transportation like buses, cruises, or flights.
- Do not visit movie theatres, gyms, or any other public places with air-conditioning systems.
- Avoid sharing your utensils and personal toiletry like soaps and towels with anyone.
How can I prevent getting infected by the corona fever?
There are a lot of things one can do to prevent contracting the condition. Coronavirus is an air-borne virus that can be transmitted aerially. Studies have also shown that the virus stays active for 3-5 days on solid states of matter like plastic and steel.
To prevent contracting the corona fever:
Quit smoking immediately. Studies have shown that people who smoke tobacco and marijuana are more likely to contract this condition. The formation of tar in the lungs makes it difficult for a person to breathe normally. Thus, making it easier for the coronavirus to cause maximum damage or cause respiratory failure.
If you are finding it difficult to quit smoking, consult a doctor to seek help. You could also use nicotine gums and nicotine patches to curb the cravings.
- Do not encourage physical contact with people who have tested positive for corona fever.
- If any of your family members or people in your household have contracted the infection, ensure that they are put up in a separate room with a private bathroom.
- Ensure that common areas being used by the patient are disinfected frequently. Example: Doorknobs, counter-tops, utensils, switchboards, Keyboards, faucets, and other taps in the bathrooms and kitchen.
- Avoid being close to elements that could trigger an asthma attack.
- Maintain six-feet distance from people when in public places like ATMs, or supermarkets.
- Rinse your hands for 20 seconds at least with soap and water. In these 20 seconds, ensure that you thoroughly wash the thumb, the palm, the knuckles, and the gap between your fingers.
- A hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol or above is a good alternative for soap.
Special Care for kids and the elderly
People with weaker immune systems are more likely to be affected by corona fever when compared to people with strong immunity. Children under the age of 10 and the elderly over the age of 65 tend to have a weak immune system. If you have children at home, ensure that they wear a mask at all times when outdoors. Also, make it a point to ensure that they disinfect themselves every time they come home.
Older adults are advised not to venture off the safety of their homes unless it is necessary. Even when you are stepping out for grocery runs or to the pharmacist, ensure that you have your mask and gloves on. Disinfect after coming home either with soap or an alcohol-based sanitizer.
Immunity boosters you can consider:
There are a lot of fruits and vegetables you can consume to ensure that you receive all the vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain good immunity.
Here are a few fruits and vegetables to include in your diet.
- Citrus-based fruits (lemons, oranges, and Mosambe)
- Broccoli
- Beetroot
- Ginger and Garlic
- Spinach
- Red bell peppers
- Almonds
- Sunflower seeds
- Yoghurt
- Papaya
- Green tea
- Turmeric
- Certain shellfish (Oyster, Crab, Lobster, and mussels)
If you are unable to include the fruits mentioned above and vegetables in your diet to boost your immunity, you can consult your physician to take instructions on which supplements to take to ensure that there is a steady inflow of Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin A, Proteins, and Zinc.
Dr. Ajay Kumar B | Consultant, Pulmonology, Sahyadri Narayana Multispeciality Hospital, Shimoga