Corona Virus – Symptoms, Causes, Complications And Prevention

Coronavirus is basically a family of viruses that are causing illness such as the common cold, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). In 2019, coronavirus was identified as the disease outbreak that originated in China. It is now known as the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). And the disease caused by it is known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a pandemic outbreak named COVID-19.

There are public health groups, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO, who are constantly monitoring the pandemic. They are providing updates on their respective websites as well. Recommendations have been issued by such groups in order to prevent & treat the illness. Let’s have a look at the Corona Symptoms below.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Corona Virus?

After exposure, the signs and symptoms of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may occur within two to 15 days. The time after the exposure and before experiencing its symptoms is termed as the incubation period. Have a look at the common signs and symptoms that are as follows:-

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Chest pain
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Muscle aches
• loss of taste or smell
• Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

The above-mentioned list is not enough to consider symptoms of corona. There are other less common symptoms that have also been reported, such as rash, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Symptoms of corona in children are also similar to that of adults and generally have mild illness.

Severity of Covid-19

Peoples who are older have a high risk of getting seriously ill due to COVID- 19. The risk increases with the age, and peoples who are already facing chronic medical problems such as diabetes, heart diseases, liver or kidney problems, are more prone to get severe illnesses from coronavirus. Though the severity of COVID-19 symptoms ranges from mild to severe problems. Some people experience only a few symptoms, whereas some other people may face no symptoms at all. Some face worsened symptoms, such as shortness of breath and pneumonia, after symptoms start.

When Do You Need to See a Doctor?

If you are suspicious about having symptoms of corona or you have been in contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 then you must immediately contact your doctor right away for medical attention. Tell your health care specialist about your problems that you are facing and possible exposure before you get an appointment with your doctor. There are some emergency signs that indicate you might have corona are as follows:-

• Breathing issues
• Chest pain or pressure
• Inability to stay awake
• State of confusion
• Blue lips or face

What are the Causes of Corona Virus?

The infection caused by the coronavirus i.e. severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2, or SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for causing coronavirus disease. Data shows that this virus spreads very easily from one person to another. Those who are in close contact (within about 6 feet, or 2 meters) are also facing the consequences of this disease. This virus spreads by respiratory droplets that are released when someone with the virus coughs, sneezes, breathes, sings, or talks. These droplets, when inhaled or gets in the mouth, nose, or eyes of a person, cause COVID-19. When this virus spreads by a person being exposed to small droplets or aerosols that remains in the air for several hours or minutes is termed as airborne transmission. It also spreads when a person touches a surface or object that has viruses on it and then touches his or her mouth, nose, or eyes.

Complications

Most people having COVID-19 disease are having mild to moderate symptoms. This disease causes severe medical complications and sometimes leads to death also in complex cases. Older adults or people with existing chronic medical conditions are at high risk of getting seriously ill.

Complications can include the following:-

• Pneumonia and trouble breathing
• Organ failure
• Heart problems
• Severe lung condition
• Blood clots
• Acute kidney injury
• Additional viral and bacterial infections

Prevention

Although there is no vaccine available presently to prevent COVID-19, still you can follow some steps to reduce your risk of getting infected. WHO and CDC recommend the following precautions so that you can avoid exposure to the virus:-

• Avoid close contact (within about 6 feet, or 2 meters) with anyone who is sick or looks to have symptoms similar to coronavirus.
• Wash your hands often with soap for about 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer having 60% alcohol.
• Maintain social distance between you and others about 6 feet, or 2 meters.
• Cover your face with a mask in public places.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth again and again.
• Don’t share dishes, towels, bedding, and other household things with anyone.
• Disinfect and clean high-touch surfaces.
• Stay home and do your work from home
• Avoid public transportation.

Check with your doctor immediately if you face some infections.