COVID-19 pandemic is nowhere near its end. If anything, it has picked up pace. It was easier to isolate at the beginning, where the stamina was high, and the fear was real. Now, months of isolation have frustrated people to the point where they are becoming less and less cooperative.
People are now becoming laxer in their practices, which is why the number of reported cases has surpassed even China. With the disease running amok, quarantining and self-isolating is becoming even more prudent; the former is used to protect people from getting the virus and the latter is useful for not transmitting it to others. A few cautionary practices can not only save your life, but that of others as well. Surely inconvenience is better than the alternative of death.
Whilst those who are not feeling ill can afford to be less stringent about their mobility; they can move about their house freely; only quarantining themselves from the masses should suffice. However, those experiencing the symptoms of coronavirus should self-isolate in case the rest of the family members have not been exposed.
Symptoms of Coronavirus:
The virus presents a myriad of symptoms in different people. Cough, sore throat, cold, flu, fever, aching bones and back, lethargy, digestive issues like vomiting and diarrhea, etc. are experienced in various combinations in most of the patients. The alarming symptoms that require hospitalization are breathing difficulties, pressure or tightness in the chest, lips, or nails turning blue, disorientation or memory loss etc.
Since the most alarming thing in COVID-19 is that oxygen levels tend to drop suddenly, hence having a good doctor on board, albeit via video or phone call is imperative. Contact the best internal medicine specialist in Lahore to verify if hospital care is required.
The good news is that most people can recover at home, for which it is important to know how to isolate yourself.
Isolation guide for patients of COVID-19
Stay home, away from everyone:
If you are suffering from the symptoms or have a test positive for coronavirus, you should immediately isolate yourself from your family. Limit your movements to a specific place only. This no-go zone should not be frequented without proper protective gear by others around you. No animals or people should be near you unless necessary.
Anyone coming near you should always wear PPE, masks, and gloves. If the latter is not possible, then tell them to avoid contact with surfaces around you and to wash hands immediately after.
Use a separate bathroom:
Ideally, you-the patient- should be given the room with an en suite bathroom. If that’s not possible, then designate a bathroom for yourself alone. Everyone else should not even go near the bathroom in case you have touched the peripheral surfaces.
Monitor yourself:
It can be hard, but you have to play your own nurse. Be mindful of your symptoms; take your temperature, check your vitals like oxygen levels. Some latest phones come with the pulse oximeter, else, invest in one. Your oxygen saturation levels should not fall below 92% at room temperature.
Take care of your health:
28 days is the required time for isolation for the patients. During this time, it is on you to take care of your health. Take your medicines and your vitamins, especially Vitamin C and D. Hydrate yourself, especially if suffering from an upset stomach. Ensure that you take a well-balanced diet rich in natural foods. Avoid sugar and processed food as they compromise immunity.
Being isolated does not mean being alone:
It is hard being alone at such times when the fear is palpable and sometimes you are simply not faring well in isolation. It is thus important to keep in contact via video or phone call with your family members to not have the blues.
Also, as the stats can drop for the patients, it is crucial to communicate how you are feeling to those around you. If you feel the onset of the serious symptoms of COVID-19, you need to call for a doctor immediately.
Do not share things
As a patient, you should not share anything with others to avoid the risk of transmission. Have your own cutlery, toiletries, and utility items. Those surfaces that are touched by everyone like the doorknobs and switches ought to be disinfected regularly.
Pay heed to your mental health
Health care, isolation, and fatigue from the disease can take a great toll on mental health. As stress decreases immunity, jeopardized mental health can also endanger physical health. Therefore, pay heed to your mental wellbeing.
Stay away from news about COVID-19, the deaths, etc. as so many things are not validated and can induce anxiety. Do breathing exercises and meditation to lower stress and remain calm. Praying can also be a great source of solace. Occupy yourself in more positive ways.
Do not travel unless absolutely
Do not leave the house unless it is to visit a doctor or a hospital. Even then, avoid using public transport and go on your personal vehicle only. Don on bodysuit to prevent contaminating others. Even if you are all alone, do not venture out but have the items delivered to you. These 28 days of isolation can be hard; however, given the right measures are taken, risks can surely be minimized.