- COVID-19 is a novel virus that can cause mild to severe symptoms, including fatigue, difficulty breathing, and organ damage.
- Mental health issues such as depression and PTSD may occur due to the virus.
- Financial strain is possible due to medical bills and a lack of income while recovering.
- Treatment options include antiviral medications, immune modulators, antibiotics, and supportive care.
- By staying informed and taking precautions to protect yourself and others, you can help stop the spread of COVID-19.
With the spread of COVID-19, it is essential to be aware of the serious consequences of contracting the virus. While most cases are mild, there is still a risk that it could have long-term effects that can last for years. Here’s what you need to know about COVID-19, how it can affect your life, and how to get treated.
What is COVID-19
COVID-19 is a new, or novel, virus that is believed to have originated in China. It is a member of the coronavirus family, and it can cause a range of symptoms from mild cold-like symptoms to more severe complications, including pneumonia and breathing difficulties. Here are the impacts of COVID-19 on your life.
Physical Health Impacts
COVID-19 has been known to cause long-term physical health implications for some people who contract the virus. One of the most common lasting effects is fatigue, which can last for up to six months after you’ve had the virus. Other possible effects include difficulty breathing, heart palpitations, and organ damage if the infection is severe enough. Even if you recover from the immediate symptoms of COVID-19, it is essential to be aware that lingering effects may need attention to maintain your health.
Mental Health Impacts
The psychological impact of COVID-19 can be just as profound as any physical impact. Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are common among those with the virus, especially if hospitalized or isolated during treatment. It’s also not uncommon for survivors to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to their experience with the illness. If these psychological issues are left unchecked, they can lead to more serious mental health problems in the future.
Financial Implications
One of the most obvious ways that getting COVID-19 can ruin your life is through financial strain. Many people who contract the virus cannot work while they recuperate, leaving them without an income while they pay for medical bills and other expenses related to their recovery period. This financial burden can be insurmountable for those with preexisting conditions or low incomes, leading to further financial hardship.
How to Get Treated
COVID-19 is a serious illness, but it can be treated. Here are some ways you can get treated if you get the virus:
Preliminary Checkup
First, you need to get yourself checked. It might not be wise to visit a hospital immediately, considering you might infect other people if you have the virus. Instead, consider choosing the telemedicine solution. Telemedicine allows you to consult with a doctor from the comfort of your home, reducing the need for physical contact and increasing safety. If you do have COVID-19, you need to get treated.
Antiviral Medications
Antiviral medications are one of the most commonly used treatments for COVID-19. These medications interfere with the virus’s replication process, making it less able to reproduce and spread throughout the body. Examples of antiviral medications used to treat COVID-19 include remdesivir and favipiravir.
Immune Modulators
Immune modulators are another standard treatment for COVID-19 that works by boosting your body’s natural immune response to fight off the virus. Examples of these drugs include interferon alpha and hydroxychloroquine. Depending on your needs, these drugs may be combined with other treatments, such as antiviral medications or antibiotics.
Antibiotics
In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial infections that may occur due to having contracted COVID-19. Patients who develop pneumonia due to their infection may need antibiotics to fight any secondary bacterial infections that could further complicate their recovery process.
Supportive Care
Finally, supportive care is also an essential part of treating COVID-19. This includes taking pain relievers or fever reducers to reduce discomfort associated with symptoms, getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated, and eating nutritious meals to help your body stay strong while fighting the virus. It’s also important to follow any instructions from your doctor regarding self-isolation or quarantine if needed until you have recovered from the virus completely.
COVID-19 is a severe virus that can long-term affect your physical and mental health and finances. While there is still much to learn about the virus, knowing how it can affect you and how to get treated if you contract the virus is essential. By staying informed and taking precautions to protect yourself and others, you can help stop the spread of COVID-19.
