Your Essential 2024 COVID Symptom and Treatment Handbook
Embrace rest, hydration, and the right medications.
In today’s COVID landscape, familiarity doesn’t always breed comfort. Despite being four years into the pandemic, the return of COVID symptoms can still trigger the same initial alarm as the first encounter.
Here’s your updated manual on recognizing COVID symptoms and managing them effectively.
Symptoms:
Dr. Soniya Gandhi, Associate Chief Medical Officer at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, emphasizes that the hallmark symptoms of COVID, including fatigue, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, headache, body aches, and cough, remain largely unchanged, even with the prevalence of the latest dominant variant, JN.1.
Dr. Gandhi underscores that any combination of these symptoms, even in isolation, could signal COVID. While rarer, some individuals might experience conjunctivitis (pink eye) or gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that the early pandemic’s prominent symptom—loss of taste and smell—is now less common.
Dr. Amanda Casto, Acting Assistant Professor of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the University of Washington, notes a significant shift: overall milder symptoms due to widespread pre-existing immunity from vaccinations or prior infections.
While most cases are mild, severe illness remains a threat, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions. Adults over 65 are also at higher risk.
Treatment:
Early intervention is crucial. The antiviral pill Paxlovid has shown promising results, significantly reducing the risk of death if taken within the first five days of infection. Individuals at high risk should promptly consult their healthcare providers upon symptom onset or testing positive.
Dr. Bernard Camins, Medical Director for Infection Prevention at the Mount Sinai Health System, stresses the importance of seeking medical care early, especially for vulnerable demographics.
However, Paxlovid isn’t suitable for everyone due to potential interactions with certain medications and contraindications for severe kidney disease. Remdesivir may be an alternative, albeit administered intravenously.
For those with mild symptoms, home management is key. Prioritize rest and hydration. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can alleviate fever and body aches. While over-the-counter cold and flu medicines are an option, experts caution against reliance due to variable efficacy and potential side effects.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
Shortness of breath warrants immediate medical attention, as it could indicate rapid deterioration. Dr. Casto emphasizes the critical nature of breathing difficulties and advises seeking emergency care promptly. Additionally, confusion or chest pain should prompt medical evaluation.
Persistent or worsening symptoms may signal a secondary infection like pneumonia, necessitating medical intervention.
Your health and well-being are paramount. If in doubt, always consult your healthcare provider for guidance and support.
