Sniffles, sneezes, and a sore throat. Many of us will simply assume we have a cold. A common cold that many of us experience every year, normally during the winter months. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic and a number of other illnesses your symptoms could be something more serious.
How to tell - Is it a Common Cold or Something More Serious?
Symptoms
The issue with self diagnosis is that many symptoms are the same or similar with other illnesses. With the seriousness of COVID-19 it is highly recommended that if you are experiencing any symptoms to get tested and/or quarantine, even symptoms that appear to be the common cold.
Common Cold Symptoms
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore Throat
Common COVID-19 Symptoms
- Cough
- Fever
- Headaches
- Chills
- Loss of Taste and/or smell
- Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
- Muscles/body aches
- Diarrhea
- Nausea/Vomiting
Diagnosis
Once you receive a negative COVID-19 test and your symptoms are mild you may begin to start treating your symptoms at home. Remember, to stay home when you are not feeling well even after you receive a negative COVID-19 diagnosis. If your symptoms worsen or are severe, seek medical treatment.
Treatment
If your symptoms are mild you can begin treatment at home by:
- Get plenty of rest - Research shows that when you’re sleeping, your body makes proteins called cytokines, which are important for fighting infection and inflammation.
- Stay home when you are sick - Avoid spreading any illness you may be experiencing by staying home.
- Hydrate - Fluids can thin your mucus and make it easier for you to drain it from your nose and sinuses. Fluids also help to keep the mucous membranes lubricated, which means that you can help eliminate that feeling of dryness in your nose.
- Gargle with salt water to ease a sore throat - The recommended measurement is ¼ to ½ teaspoon of salt dissolved in an 8-ounce glass of warm water.
- Add moisture to the air - Use a humidifier or vaporizer in your room at night while you sleep.
- Over-the-counter medications - Take decongestants, cough suppressants, and/or pain relievers as needed according to packaging directions.
- Eat for your immune system - Eat lots of fruits and vegetables that are nutrient dense to help maintain your immune system.
- Supplement - You can begin a vitamin C and/or vitamin D supplement to help your immune system fight the infection
Seek Medical Treatment
If your symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical treatment as it could be something more serious than the common cold.