COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019)is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It has had a significant impact on global health and our daily lives since it was first identified in Wuhan, China in December 2019.

This virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, and then touching the face, especially the mouth, nose, or eyes.

The symptoms of COVID-19 range from mild (such as fever, cough, and fatigue) to severe (difficulty breathing, pneumonia, and even death).

COVID-19 symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of COVID-19 is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), most people infected with COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment.

Some people, particularly those who are older or have underlying medical conditions, may develop severe illness and even require hospitalization.  In other cases, individuals may remain asymptomatic, which means they do not display any symptoms at all.

COVID-19 symptoms can appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. This incubation period means that individuals may unknowingly spread the virus before they even realize they are infected. During this time, it’s important to monitor for any signs of illness, especially if you have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Common COVID-19 symptoms to look out for include:

• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Fever or chills
• Muscle and body aches
• Fatigue
• Congestion or a runny nose

Less common symptoms may include:

• Sore throat
• Loss of taste or smell
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headaches
• Rash
• Shivering

Severe symptoms requiring immediate medical attention include trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, and bluish lips or face. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical care immediately.

Treatment for COVID-19

When it comes to treating COVID-19, the approach depends on the severity of the illness and the overall health of the patient. While most people with COVID-19 can recover at home with symptomatic care, others may require more intensive treatment, especially if they belong to a high-risk category or experience severe symptoms. Severe cases may even require hospitalization.

Medication for COVID-19

For the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19, several medications have been authorized and recommended by the FDA such as:

• Paxlovid: An antiviral treatment authorized for emergency use in COVID-19 cases, Paxlovid has shown effectiveness in reducing the severity of the disease in patients who are at risk of developing serious complications. It is typically prescribed for early-stage infections to prevent the need for hospitalization.
• Lagevrio (molnupiravir): This oral antiviral is another option available under emergency use authorization, designed to treat mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults who are at risk for severe outcomes. Like Paxlovid, it’s most effective when taken soon after symptom onset.
• Remdesivir: Initially one of the first antiviral medications approved by the FDA to treat COVID-19, Remdesivir is used primarily in hospital settings to treat severe cases, helping to decrease the time to recovery.

Other treatments may also be used in severe cases to help manage symptoms and prevent complications such as:

• Monoclonal antibodies: These are used to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in patients who are at high risk of developing severe symptoms. These treatments work by mimicking the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens.
• Steroids such as Dexamethasone: This is used primarily for severe cases. Dexamethasone has been shown to reduce mortality in patients who require supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation.
• Over-the-counter (OTC) medications: For managing mild symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches at home, OTC medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be effective.

Prevention

Aside from treating active infections, preventive measures continue to play a crucial role. Vaccination against COVID-19 is the foremost preventive tool, significantly reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Regular hand washing, wearing masks in crowded or indoor settings, and maintaining physical distance from others are also effective strategies to prevent the spread of the virus.

DrHouse’s Role in COVID-19 management

• Diagnosing and managing COVID-19: DrHouse utilizes telehealth technology to effectively diagnose and manage COVID-19, simulating a traditional doctor’s visit but from the comfort and safety of your home. Patients can consult with healthcare professionals who assess their symptoms, evaluate their health status, and determine the necessity for further testing or treatment.
• Referrals for in-person visits and testing: If in-person care is required, whether for diagnostic tests such as PCR or rapid antigen tests or for more intensive treatment, DrHouse provides referrals to the appropriate facilities. This ensures that patients receive comprehensive care coordinated between their online visits and any necessary in-person healthcare services.
• Prescribing medications: Based on the diagnosis and current health guidelines, our doctors can prescribe medications online to help manage the symptoms of COVID-19. This includes newer antiviral medications like Paxlovid and Lagevrio, which have been proven to reduce the severity of the infection if administered early in the course of the disease.
• Providing guidance: Throughout the process, DrHouse ensures that all patient questions and concerns are addressed. This ongoing support helps to clarify treatment options, explain health precautions, and provide reassurance during what can be a stressful time.

By leveraging telehealth, DrHouse not only facilitates prompt and effective healthcare delivery but also enhances patient safety by reducing the need for physical visits during the pandemic. This approach allows for timely medical intervention and personalized care, crucial for managing and mitigating the impacts of COVID-19.

The importance of rapid response

One of the most significant advantages of using telehealth for COVID-19 treatment is the speed at which you can receive medical attention. Traditional healthcare settings may involve long wait times and increased exposure risks. With telehealth, you can quickly connect with a healthcare provider, receive a diagnosis, and start your treatment plan without delay.

Rapid response is crucial in managing COVID-19 effectively. Early intervention can prevent the progression of the disease and reduce the likelihood of severe complications.

Frequently asked questions

Can COVID be diagnosed by an online doctor?

Yes, COVID-19 can be diagnosed by an online doctor through a virtual consultation and evaluation of the patient’s symptoms. If deemed necessary after an initial telehealth consultation, DrHouse can facilitate referrals for in-person visits or diagnostic testing to ensure comprehensive care.

This might include referrals for PCR or rapid antigen tests at approved facilities. By coordinating these referrals, DrHouse ensures that patients receive accurate and timely diagnoses, enabling appropriate treatment plans to be devised.

Additionally, for patients who prefer to minimize exposure by avoiding public spaces, DrHouse also offers guidance on at-home testing options. This includes providing information on authorized home test kits that can be used to self-administer a COVID-19 test.

Can telehealth treat severe cases of COVID-19?

Telehealth is primarily used for mild to moderate cases of COVID-19. Severe cases may require in-person care and hospitalization for more intensive treatment. However, telehealth can play a role in coordinating care between remote consultations and necessary in-person visits or treatments

Will I need an in-person visit for COVID?

It depends on the severity of your symptoms and the recommendation of the healthcare provider. In some cases, an in-person visit may be necessary for diagnostic tests or more intensive treatments. However, telehealth can facilitate this process by providing referrals to appropriate facilities and coordinating care between remote consultations and in-person visits.

Is telehealth safe for COVID-19 treatment?

Yes, telehealth is a safe and effective option for treating COVID-19. It reduces exposure risks by minimizing physical visits, while also providing timely medical attention and personalized care from the comfort of your own home.

Can I get a prescription for COVID online?

Yes, our healthcare professionals can prescribe medications online for the management of COVID-19, based on your symptoms and current health guidelines. This may include newer antiviral medications like Paxlovid and Lagevrio, which have been proven to be effective in reducing the severity of the infection if administered early.

For more detailed information about COVID-19, you can refer to the following sources:

• About COVID-19,  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), World Health Organization (WHO).