What to do if you are showing COVID-19 symptoms? Top doctors answer

As there is a spike in COVID-19 cases in India, some of the top doctors of the country addressed various issues related to the coronavirus pandemic and advised people on how to handle the situation if they test positive.

AIIMS director Randeep Guleria, Narayana Health Chairman Dr Devi Shetty, and Medanta Chairman Dr Naresh Trehan were talking to ANI during a live chat on Wednesday where they suggested the first few steps to do if you contract the virus.

1: The drill to follow if showing symptoms 

The stream starts with the doctors elaborating on the importance of getting tested if showing symptoms. While waiting for the test results or even before you get tested isolation is a must so as to eliminate the chances of spreading the virus inside your home. 

Also read: Most people don’t need hospitalisation, do not panic: advice from Top Doctors 

2: The next step if tested positive for the virus

If the test results come out positive then the first step should be to consult a doctor. He adds reassuringly, that the coronavirus has become very common and in 85% of cases the virus will resolve itself without any medication. But the key to a smooth recovery would be to start the treatment at an early stage. 

He also recommends checking the oxygen saturation every six hours with your own oximeter. It is crucial that the oxygen saturation remains above 94% and if it drops then your doctor should be informed at the earliest.

3: Seeking medical help 

Regardless of the severity of your symptoms, a doctor should be contacted at the earliest. There are multiple ways to seek help from medical professionals online. Many of the top tier hospitals as well as our government have COVID apps that can be used to contact doctors for consultation. Dr Naresh Trehan suggests that we get in touch with a doctor and share the details of our situation. 

Also read: Remdesivir for Rs 1 Lakh, black marketeers feed off India’s COVID tragedy 

Furthermore, he mentions that in cases where the patient does not have space to isolate themselves then they may go to the quarantine centres provided by almost every hospital where they will be under medical care and their oxygen levels will be checked regularly. 

4: In case of hospitalization 

Hospitalization is mandatory for patients with a dropping oxygen level and a high score in the CT scans. The doctors again mention the fact that hospital resources beds are limited. Hence only those who are critical and meet the guidelines for hospitalization should get admitted.