COVID-19 continues to spread around the US and the globe, and according to the experts, it is going to get worse before it gets better. More than a million Americans will likely catch the virus before we make substantial progress against the disease, so we need to continue practicing social distancing to help slow the spread.
Despite our best intentions, odds are you or someone you know will begin to experience symptoms of COVID-19. Below, we are going to share some tips for how to care for yourself if you believe you are developing the condition.
Self Care For COVID-19
Regardless of whether you have officially tested positive or you believe you are starting to show symptoms of the coronavirus, here is how you should proceed with a self care plan:
Contact Your Doctor – It is great that you are looking for advice on the internet, but we definitely recommend that one of the first things you do is to reach out to your primary care physician. Let them know what you are dealing with and if you have been officially tested. They will be able to answer questions you might have and provide you with personalized instructions. Their personalized recommendations should take precedence over this general list.
Rest – Your body needs to focus on handling the virus, so do not overexert yourself. Tell your boss that you will be out sick and give your body plenty of time to rest and recover. For the next 10-14 days, your focus should be on helping your body recover, and that begins with rest.
Hydrate – You will lose more fluids than you may realize when dealing with a fever and related symptoms, so it is crucial you stay hydrated. Drink lots of fluids like water or electrolyte-infused drinks. Avoid coffee and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you. Consider soups and fruits for meals that also help keep you hydrated. Sometimes it may be tough to keep liquids down, but work hard to replenish your fluid levels throughout the day.
Journal and Monitor Your Symptoms – Keep track of your symptoms and see how you are progressing. Many people say their experience a swing of symptoms, where they have good and bad portions of the day. If you experience any of the following symptoms, or your condition significantly worsens, contact a medical provider:
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Confusion or difficulty staying awake
- Sustained elevated fever over 101
When contacting your medical provider, please be sure to let them know you have or believe you have COVID-19
Self-Isolate – You should be practicing social distancing anyways, but if you believe you have COVID-19, assume you do and social isolate. Do not go out to grab groceries or gas up your car. Let someone else bring you essential goods and do a porch pickup so you do not need to interact with anyone. Stop the spread with you.
Keep these tips in mind and eat a healthy diet, and you will put yourself in the best position to beat the coronavirus.