COVID-19 Info a PCP Perspective

What is Coronavirus or COVID-19?

Viruses are infections that cannot be treated with antibiotics.  Viruses can only replicate inside of a living organism.  Coronaviruses are a class of virus which have  many types; some causes disease or illness in animals or people.  COVID-19 was named due to it origination in China in 2019. 

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How does it spread?

While a lot is being learned about this new virus what we do know at this time is that it is spread via droplets found in the air after someone sneezes or coughs.  Droplet spread does not spread far in the air however because of its weight will fall onto surfaces or the ground within seconds.

What are symptoms?

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The presumed symptoms are emerging as we learn more about this infection and how it operates.  As of now the most common symptoms are:

*Cough
*Fever
*Shortness of breath
*Muscle aches
*Sore throat
*Loss of taste or smell
*Diarrhea
*Headache

Pretty general right?  Exactly these symptoms are not considered specific to COVID-19 which is why it’s been very important as practitioners that we obtain a very thorough history of our patients and families.

In severe cases of the illness patients can suffer from respiratory distress, kidney problems and even death.

How is COVID-19 diagnosed?

It’s not easy!  Until there are more lab tests available the main method of diagnosing the illness is clinical.  This means the diagnosis is made by your provider having a thorough history of your symptoms, risk or exposure or history of exposure. 

Laboratory tests--specifically the nasal pharyngeal swab--can confirm the diagnosis but the diagnosis is made based on symptoms at presentation.  This is why mild cases can sometimes appear similarly to a flu or bad cold.

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What are the treatment options?

Despite what you here there is no treatment for COVID-19 at this time. NONE!  I stress this because there are many reports regarding possible usage of medications such as Hydroxychloroquine and Azithromycin however neither of these drugs has been proven to be effective in treatment of this illness and the risks of these medications used together or even alone include arrhythmia, blurred or loss of vision which can be permanent, heart failure, angioedema—swelling of the skin.  I stress no matter what you hear the FDA has not approved either drug for treatment in COVID-19 cases.

How deadly is the infection?

As of April 21, 2020 when I was typing out this post there were 823,786 confirmed cases in the US with 44,845 deaths.  This means that 778,941 cases that have been tested have resolved!  While the deaths are staggering the numbers of individuals who have recovered are hopeful.  Also what is hopeful is that not everyone has been tested.  While this is very much a frustration for most statisticians, providers, and individuals it also means that potentially there are cases that have not been confirmed that have also resolved due to lack of available testing.

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​Should I be tested?

According to the CDC not everyone needs to be tested for COVID-19.  The CDC has specific guidance for patients as well as providers on who should be tested. 

If you aren’t sure talk with you primary care provider about your symptoms and discuss if testing is necessary.

What to do if I think I have COVID-19?

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Stay in place!  Stay away from others.  Wash your hands routinely and clean routinely uses surfaces in your home frequently (e.g. tables, door knobs, countertops, phones, computers and keyboards, etc). Things you can use to clean—basic soap and water.

Next disinfect surfaces—you can use diluted bleach on appropriate surfaces or other house hold disinfectants like (lysol, windex, comet, etc).

Treat your symptoms—Tylenol for fever.  Stay hydrated.  If you have a fever you are loosing more water than you think so hydrate hydrate hydrate!

Monitor your symptoms—if you should start to notice:

*trouble breathing
*persistant chest pressure
*confusion or excessive sleepiness or difficult to awaken
*bluish lips or face

Or other symptoms that have you concerned contact your primary care provider

If you were not tested but suspected that you were positive and as a result self-quarantine the guidelines are you can end your quarantine if you have not had a fever for 72+ hours (without the use of medication) AND your symptoms have improved AND 7 days have passed since your symptoms first started.

Where can I get more information?

The CDC website is a very reputable source and the best (in my opinion) source for information so start there.  Another source to use if your primary care provider.  If you have questions schedule a virtual visit or telephone visit with your primary care provider to discuss symptoms or concerns.  As providers part of our job includes education.

In the end remember we are all in this together!  We will get through this together by being well informed, cautious, and patient.