I am COVID-19 positive. How to manage it?
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I tested positive for COVID-19 over a week ago. I had a fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, and diarrhea. Currently, I have an excruciating headache and chest pain. Have taken Tylenol and Advil.
Kindly guide.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I am deeply saddened by your illness. Have you already had a chest CT? Please have an eye on your breathing frequency. If you have more than 20 breaths per minute, you should seek hospitalization.
As to the headache, unfortunately, COVID-19 can also enter the brain and cause inflammation there. That’s the most likely explanation. I’m normally very skeptical in regard to opioids. But in this case, Tramadol would be a good choice for short-term use. If this doesn’t help, you need to be treated in a hospital. Please do not take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) since Acetaminophen is highly liver-toxic in high doses, and COVID is stressing your liver anyway. And maybe you should switch from Advil (Ibuprofen) to Aspirin 500mg, 3 times a day, because Aspirin also prevents the formation of blood clots, a common complication of COVID. Advil does not have this effect.
What is more, convincing small studies indicate that the OTC medications Famotidin (3x40mg a day) and Clemastin (4x1mg a day) might help to reduce the symptom burden of Covid significantly within 24 to 48 hours. Since they are OTC products and, in general, well-tolerated, this might be worth a try. Please be careful. As soon as you feel a sudden deterioration of your condition, please call an ambulance. I wish you a speedy recovery.
I hope this helps.
Please feel free to reach out in case of further queries.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Related Questions
I have acidity and indigestion problem. What to do?
Is it safe to plan for a baby during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic?
My throat feels swollen, constricted, and sore. Kindly suggest medication.
Tramadol Toxicity - Etiology, Adverse Effects and Treatment
Navigating Reproductive Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic: What to Know
Will Tramadol have long-standing effects same as that of Ketamine in major depression?
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
