As we continue navigating life under lockdown, many of us remain largely unaware of what it's really like to deal with the symptoms of COVID-19. Yet, projections suggest that up to 214 million Americans may eventually fall ill, meaning self-care at home will become a necessity for countless individuals. Unfortunately, misinformation runs rampant online, from the dangerous myth that holding your breath for ten seconds proves you're free of the virus to unverified treatments flooding social media and online marketplaces. This is a serious issue, especially during a global pandemic—accurate symptom knowledge is essential for proper self-care.
To gather insights, we spoke remotely with five people who have recovered from COVID-19, asking about remedies that helped ease their symptoms. Additionally, we consulted Sanya Delgado, a registered nurse case manager at Wake Forest Baptist Health, to ensure the safety of each recommendation. Below, you’ll find practical advice from these recovered patients on managing potential symptoms if you fall ill.
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### The Bottom Line on Coronavirus Symptoms
If you experience any signs of COVID-19—such as a dry cough, extreme fatigue, fever, or difficulty breathing—contact a healthcare provider right away. Our RN case manager notes that testing and care protocols vary depending on your location due to differing resource availability. As of now, there is no proven cure or treatment for the virus, so it's vital to consult professionals and follow their guidance.
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### Monitoring Your Symptoms
Early symptoms of coronavirus tend to be mild, often starting with a loss of taste or smell or a minor cough. However, they can rapidly escalate overnight. Sara Sayed initially noticed a swollen lymph node after traveling, which seemed harmless. By day two, though, she woke up feeling exhausted and sore, as if she'd been hit by a truck.
Symptoms can fluctuate daily, progressing to shortness of breath, persistent coughs, high fevers, severe headaches, and loss of appetite. It's crucial to share daily updates with your doctor so they can offer tailored care. With many hospitals operating at capacity, physicians may ask you to report symptoms over the phone. To facilitate this, having a thermometer nearby is key, though availability varies regionally. An oximeter can help assess oxygen levels, while an incentive spirometer monitors lung capacity.
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### Recovery Basics: Nutrition, Hydration, and Rest
We’ve learned that the coronavirus behaves differently than the seasonal flu. Common symptoms like loss of taste and smell, along with intense skin sensitivity and body aches, may feel unfamiliar. Despite this, standard care principles still apply: rest, hydrate, and try to eat nutritiously.
Todd Sherry, who battled COVID-19, emphasized the importance of preparing ahead. "If you're healthy, stock up on easy-to-make meals," he advised. Preparing ahead with items like canned soups, frozen meals, or smoothies ensures you'll have sustenance even if cooking becomes challenging due to fatigue. Dehydration is common with nausea and reduced appetite; keeping electrolyte packets or sports drinks on hand can prevent complications.
For those living alone, finding a "coronavirus buddy" can be invaluable. This person can bring essentials and gently remind you to track your symptoms. Josh Holden benefited greatly from his neighbor leaving meals outside his door—a luxury not everyone can access, but a worthwhile effort if possible.
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### Over-the-Counter Medications and Vitamins
Nurse Delgado stresses the importance of monitoring all medications and being mindful of active ingredients. Acetaminophen, for example, should be taken sparingly due to potential liver risks. Combining multiple medications with similar ingredients increases this danger.
NSAIDs like ibuprofen have been rumored to worsen coronavirus symptoms, but several patients we interviewed reported no adverse effects. While the FDA hasn't confirmed any risks, Delgado recommends opting for alternative fever reducers. Some patients found relief with Nyquil, Dayquil, Theraflu, or Tylenol for fever and pain, though mixing these is ill-advised. Benadryl aids sleep, while Mucinex encourages productive coughing. Hydration is critical for maximizing the effectiveness of any OTC drugs. Multivitamins, especially zinc, vitamin D, and C, can support overall health, particularly when taste and smell are diminished.
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### Soothing the Airways
Hot beverages—like herbal tea or water with honey—are comforting and soothing, thanks to their ability to lubricate the throat. Steam achieves similar results by loosening mucus and making coughs more productive. To harness steam’s benefits, sit in a warm bathroom with the shower running or hover over a bowl of hot water with a towel draped over your head. Be cautious, though, as some patients found steam exacerbated dizziness or caused painful coughing fits.
Phil Limanni, who dealt with severe sinus issues, relied on an over-the-counter nasal irrigation system recommended by his doctor.
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### Breathing Exercises
The hallmark of COVID-19 is its impact on the lungs. Familiarizing yourself with your typical breathing pattern before illness strikes can help you recognize changes later. Deep breathing every 20 minutes, as Mitchell Fain did, can monitor symptoms. However, avoid deep breaths if you're severely affected, as it may spread the virus further into your lungs. Instead, notify your doctor immediately if you experience sharp pains or significant shortness of breath.
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### Mental Health Matters
Dealing with physical symptoms is hard enough, but the emotional toll can be equally draining. The absence of taste left Josh Holden feeling isolated and depressed. Surrendering to the idea that productivity would come second to recovery proved pivotal for him. Similarly, Mitchell Fain focused on symptom tracking and nutrition, finding solace in routine.
Reaching out to others is crucial. Even brief messages from friends boosted spirits for Sherry, Fain, and Holden. Social connections combat loneliness and foster positivity. Remember, while there's no cure for COVID-19, preparation empowers us to manage the virus effectively.
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