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Beauty & Health

Have Cough And Runny Nose? Here’s What You Need To Know About Covid-19 Symptoms

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Wellness

Have Cough And Runny Nose? Here’s What You Need To Know About Covid-19 Symptoms

If you have no symptoms but feel off, you should still see the doctor

March 21, 2020
Have Cough And Runny Nose Here's What You Need To Know On Covid-19 Symptoms

Photo: Pexels

As China is slowly recovering from the damage Covid-19 has left on the country, the rest of the world remains in a frenzy over increasing cases, clusters and deaths.

Here in Singapore, there are over 300 cases and two deaths, the latter which were announced earlier today (March 21) at 11.30am. While countries like Malaysia and New Zealand have ordered complete lockdowns, Singapore hasn’t taken such drastic measures; instead, the Ministry of Health has announced stricter safe distancing measures such as a one-metre separation between patrons at restaurants and cinemas.

As a community we should remain responsible and vigilant as possible. That includes observing personal hygiene, maintaining proper social distancing and watching your symptoms, if you have any.

And if you’re feeling under the weather, there’s no need to panic. Here’s what you need to know about Covid-19’s symptoms so you can make an informed decision before seeking medical help.

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https://www.womensweekly.com.sg/gallery/beauty-and-health/wellness/covid-19-symptoms/
Have Cough And Runny Nose? Here's What You Need To Know About Covid-19 Symptoms
What are the symptoms of Covid-19?
image

The two most common symptoms for Covid-19 are fever (of 37.8 deg C and above) and cough.

Infectious diseases expert Leong Hoe Nam said that those who are experiencing either of the two symptoms, or both, should consult a doctor.

He also added that those who feel generally unwell should also see a doctor, noting that practically all the identified Covid-19 cases had the sensation of being unwell at some point.

Unsplash
What about mild, flu-like symptoms which are not fever and cough? Should I visit the doctor as well?
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Other mild, flu-like symptoms such as sore throat, stuffy nose and runny nose should be monitored closely for at least five days, said Dr Leong, as sore throat and stuffy nose were not symptoms present in 90 per cent of the confirmed Covid-19 cases.

However, people should look out for any prolonged or worsening symptoms, as well as new, developing symptoms, he noted, and see a doctor if these occur.

In the meantime, individuals should practise self-quarantine measures at home and avoid going out, as there is a chance they could be incubating the virus.

Unsplash
Can I self-medicate at home if I'm facing any of the above symptoms?
image

You may self-medicate if you are facing mild symptoms. However, you should visit a doctor if the symptoms are prolonged or worsening.

If you are having a cough or fever, which are common Covid-19 symptoms, you should definitely visit a doctor.

On whether people suffering from Covid-19 symptoms should avoid taking ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory drug meant for fever and pain, Dr Leong said that it has not yet been clinically proven that the drug predisposes the body to more infections.

But he suggests they choose alternatives such as paracetamol, synflex or voltaren as a precautionary measure.

Pexels
Should I visit the doctor if I'm experiencing breathlessness?
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Yes, although breathlessness does not usually develop until the later stages of Covid-19. By then, individuals would have experienced other accompanying symptoms as well, noted Dr Leong.

Dr Piotr Chlebicki, an infectious disease specialist at Mount Alvernia Hospital, also shared the same advice, adding that breathlessness is cause for medical attention, as the individual could be facing other complications like heart disease or asthma.

123RF
What if I am asymptomatic so far, but I don't feel very well in general, should I still see the doctor?
image

Yes, as long as you are feeling unwell, or sense that something is out of the ordinary, it would be a good idea to visit the doctor.

Dr Chlebicki also suggested that it would be good practice to call in to clinics before going, as this could help reduce overcrowding.

In addition, you should also refrain from doctor-hopping, said MOH in an advisory on March 11, as going back to the same doctor could ensure follow-up, and that you’re sent for Covid-19 testing if necessary.

Read Next

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Can Covid-19 Be Spread By Air & Is It Ok To Stay In An Air-Conditioned Room?

Text: Cheryl Tan/The Straits Times

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