Think you Might Have COVID-19? Here are the Symptoms

Since February, there have been over 2 million cases of COVID-19 across the United States. Over 120,000 have died, while above 1 million have recovered. Paranoia has steadily risen since the first appearance of COVID-19. Many are worried that they could come into contact with coronavirus, while others might think they have it. The best way to know if you should look into COVID testing is to better understand coronavirus and its symptoms. 

Coronavirus stems from a family of viruses that cause illnesses. These illnesses could present like a common cold, while others are more severe, like Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that is causing the current outbreak. 

Typical COVID-19 Symptoms

The symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild symptoms (akin to the common cold) to more severe symptoms. If you were to come into contact with someone who had coronavirus, you would start showing symptoms 2-14 days after exposure. According to the CDC, these are common symptoms of coronavirus: 

• Fever
• Chills
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulties breathing
• Fatigue
• Body Aches
• Headaches 
• Sore throat 
• Congestion 
• Runny nose 
  

The symptoms of coronavirus can be different for everyone. Some may present certain symptoms that others do not. You may even display some of the more unusual symptoms of coronavirus. 

Unusual COVID-19 Symptoms 

Amid the more common COVID-19 symptoms, there are some that are unusual. For one, COVID-19 can cause a new loss of smell or taste without any nasal congestion. Coronavirus can also cause eye problems, like enlargement, swollen eyelids, sensitivity to light, and irritation. Mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as a loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are also possible with COVID-19. 

Some of these unusual symptoms are dependent on the age of the patient with coronavirus. For example, in elderly patients, coronavirus has been known to cause confusion. Younger people with COVID-19 could develop itchy, painful lesions on their feet and hands. Others could develop hives or rashes. 

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If you display any common or unusual symptoms of coronavirus, you may want to contact a medical professional to discuss your next steps. In the meantime, avoid other people and wear a mask. If you want to get tested to see if you have coronavirus, each state offers testing in different locations. 

How to Avoid COVID-19 

If your test comes back negative, there are many steps you can take to stay coronavirus-free. To avoid the spread of coronavirus, make sure that you wash your hands throughout the day or anytime you come into contact with outside objects. When you wash your hands, use soap and scrub for at least 20 seconds. If you need to use hand sanitizer, make sure that it is at least 60% alcohol. When you are outside around others, make sure that you are wearing a mask and maintaining at least six feet away from others. 

COVID Testing With BASS Urgent Care

In most cases, COVID testing takes place in your own vehicle. BASS Primary Care offers COVID testing from your vehicle or inside our low-risk facility. If you have to test within our facility, you can rest assured that our facility will take the proper precautions. The most common form of COVID testing involves a nasal swab. BASS Primary Care understands that the thought of having coronavirus may scare you or cause stress. This is why we prioritize your comfort and ease. To book an appointment, call us at (925) 962-9120 or visit us online.