Darrick Robles What medicines should you have at home? How can you support the recovery process? And when is it advisable to get medical help? We have Med-Healths doctor Dr. Annette Alaeus asked: Our expert on infectious diseases reveals what you can do specifically to get back on your feet after a corona infection.
More than 370 million people worldwide have been infected with the corona virus. In Germany there were more than 10 million confirmed coronavirus cases (7.8 million recovered) and new virus mutations are constantly circulating – including omicron (B.1.1.529) and the omicron subtype BA.2.
In addition , the risk of vaccination breakthroughs increases the longer it has been since the corona vaccination. Since Omikron is significantly more contagious than previous variants, those who have been boosted should also be tested regularly for the corona virus.
Most people who contract Covid-19 still recover at home. 1 in 6 people show no symptoms at all. But there are also more and more cases of Long Covid, in which the symptoms last for many weeks to months .
What medicines should I have at home just in case?
dr Annette Alaeus recommends the following medicines:
- Paracetamol for fever
- Ibuprofen: If necessary, you can combine acetaminophen with ibuprofen to treat headaches, joint and muscle pain (if acetaminophen is not enough). If you have cardiovascular diseases, kidney diseases or other underlying diseases, you should discuss with a doctor whether you can take ibuprofen.
- a decongestant nasal spray (over the counter)
- For sinusitis symptoms , a corticosteroid nasal spray has an anti-inflammatory effect (prescription required)
- an over-the-counter cough syrup or honey to relieve coughing (Warning: Not for babies under 12 months)
- if the cough is severe, you can get a prescription for a codeine cough suppressant
- Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes to prevent transmission
But that’s no reason to buy hamsters: It’s enough if you have the medicines mentioned for 2 weeks in stock.
In some people, Covid-19 triggers blood clots – and lying down for long periods can help develop venous thrombosis. If there are risk factors such as obesity , cancer or if you are on the pill, Dr. Alaeus wearing compression stockings.
What to do if I already have Covid-19 symptoms?
If you feel sick, stay home. Take it easy and drink as much as possible to support your immune system at work. If necessary, you can use the above medications.
Elevate your head slightly and try a bit of exercise if you’re feeling well enough. For example, you can sit up once an hour or even get up and move for a few minutes. If you really can’t get out of bed – which can happen in the first week – try to at least move your arms and legs a little.
dr Alaeus advises: “Regular exercise helps to keep the circulation going. It’s also a good test to find out if you’re doing better or worse. Keep a symptom diary, noting your body temperature every morning, afternoon, and evening. If possible, ask someone to take your heart rate.”
If you have slight breathing problems, try to avoid lying on your back: it is best to lie on your side or sit up. It is also important that you remain calm. Slowly breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth, as if blowing out a candle.
Ventilate for at least 30 minutes every day. Everyone who lives in your household should wear a face mask when they come near you.
When should I go to the doctor?
The good news: According to Dr. Alaeus makes most people feel better a week after symptoms appear. They are usually well again within 2 weeks.
Get medical help if your symptoms worsen or don’t improve after a week. In the event of acute severe shortness of breath, call the emergency services immediately on 112.
Is there anything I can do to support the recovery process?
The most important thing is to listen to your body and not push it too hard. “It will take time for the body to recover,” said Dr. alaeus If you eat a balanced diet and eat lots of fruit and vegetables, you don’t need to take extra vitamin supplements. dr Alaeus explicitly warns against taking too much vitamin D.
Diarrhea can also be a Covid-19 symptom. If you have digestive problems , probiotic drinks and yoghurt can help to rebalance your intestinal flora.
Try to slowly become more active by walking around the house first. If you feel better, you can also walk short distances in the fresh air. Don’t pressure yourself if you ‘re too tired to move around at first.
“If you’ve lost your sense of smell, exercise your nervous system at least once a day. This works best with strong scents like curry spices, eucalyptus, lemon or lavender,” advises Dr. alaeus
Is it normal not to recover quickly from Covid-19?
The coronavirus affects everyone differently. About 1 in 10 people with the disease have symptoms for 3 weeks or more. These can include breathing problems, fatigue, chest pain, loss of smell and taste, or even neurological symptoms. It is completely normal to worry about possible long-term effects of Corona. Try to be patient with your health and focus on the small improvements you make every day.
What to do if I still have symptoms after 6 weeks?
If your symptoms are still there after 6 weeks, you could be affected by Post-Covid Syndrome (also called “Long Covid”). You should definitely get a medical exam. The medical interest in long-term Covid is great – numerous research teams are currently working on gaining new insights into it. In many German cities there are now post-Covid outpatient clinics that take care of patients with long-term effects of corona.
Can late effects of Covid also occur in children?
Children generally recover more quickly from a corona infection . However, some children can develop a so-called hyperinflammation syndrome within 4 to 6 weeks after infection – this requires urgent medical treatment . Possible warning signs are:
- bloodshot eyes
- high fever
- rapid breathing
- stomach pain
- headache and dizziness
- swollen lymph nodes in the neck, groin and armpits
- skin rash
- red and/or swollen hands and feet
How can Med-Healths help me with Covid-19?
Getting sick with Covid-19 can be a very distressing experience. Many sufferers struggle with symptoms for longer and it is completely normal to worry a lot about it. If you suspect a corona infection, are currently in isolation or quarantine, or are showing acute, non-life-threatening (long-term) symptoms that worry you, the video consultation can help you. Our experienced doctors are there for you – without you having to leave the house.
