CORONAVIRUS SYMPTOMS: WHAT ARE THEY AND WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DOCTOR

As the world is currently in the midst of a coronavirus outbreak, also known as COVID-19 pandemic, every country including Dubai is being affected. Thus, it is important to learn the symptoms of the novel coronavirus, so that you can stay protected and take the necessary measures to cope.

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is the name of the newly discovered coronavirus. It is an infectious disease that affects the respiratory system. Like other coronavirus outbreaks, COVID-19 has been transferred from animals to humans.

In many cases, coronavirus symptoms are mild to moderate and do not require any special treatment to recover. However, vulnerable individuals may experience severe or critical symptoms that can be fatal. Vulnerable groups are:

• Elderly people
• Patients of chronic respiratory disease
• Cardiovascular disease patients
• Diabetics
• Cancer Patients
• Those with weak immune systems

Symptoms of Coronavirus

COVID-19 may appear to be a common cold or flu. However, it can lead to more serious respiratory illness. The most common symptoms of coronavirus are as follows:

• Dry cough
• Fever
• Fatigue/tiredness
• Shortness of breath
• Aches and pains
• Sore throat

Some patients have reported these additional symptoms:

• Runny nose
• Nausea
• Diarrhea

In severe cases, the following symptoms may occur:

• Difficulty breathing
• Severe and continuous cough
• High fever

If you are experiencing any mild to moderate symptoms, then you should self-isolate and contact your general physician right away for advice and testing information.

Moreover, if you are part of a vulnerable group, have traveled recently or been in contact with anyone who has traveled are experiencing any coronavirus symptom, then self-isolate right away and contact your general practitioner.

When Should You See a Doctor?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, then do not step outside. Anyone showing symptoms should self-isolate inside their homes for at least 7 days. All family members and those who have come in contact with an infected person should also self-isolate.

As the coronavirus outbreak is caused due to human-to-human transmission, social distancing is essential to stop the spread of the virus. Therefore, avoid going to visit a doctor’s clinic  in cases of mild symptoms. Instead, self-isolate and contact your general practitioner via phone call or email.

In case of severe symptoms, or those who are part of vulnerable groups, then stay in touch with your general practitioner. If the symptoms are prolonged or worsening, then call ahead before visiting the doctor. This will allow the clinic or hospital to take all necessary precautions to protect you, other patients, and themselves in the midst of this coronavirus outbreak. Be sure to seek medical treatment in severe cases of COVID-19 symptoms.

Prevention for COVID-19

In order to protect yourself and to slow down the coronavirus outbreak, take the following precautions:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap frequently
• Cleanse your hands with sanitizer when clean water and soap is not available
• Wear a mask when you step outside
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or tissue to prevent the transmission of infected droplets to others
• Stay home and self-isolate if you feel unwell
• Self-isolate if you have been in contact with any infected person
• Avoid large gatherings and groups

As there is currently no cure for the novel coronavirus, it is essential to take all the necessary precautions. Stay safe, practice social distancing, and keep in contact with a specialized general practitioner in Dubai in case you experience any symptoms. This is the only way to prevent the spread of this coronavirus outbreak.