Are itchy throat, runny nose, headache, and body pain symptoms of COVID?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have an itchy throat, runny nose, cough, headache, body pain, and chills. It all started two days back around 2 a.m. Currently, I am taking Robitussin, Paracetamol, and Multivitamin supplements.Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. All your symptoms are consistent with flu. This flu can be seasonal influenza, or it can be COVID. The problem is the treatment for both of them is different. Since COVID is on surge worldwide, I suggest the COVID RT–PCR (reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction) test. If it is positive, you will be started on COVID-directed treatment. You can consult me after the report or visit your local physician for a further treatment plan. Meanwhile, till the report is available, I will suggest the following:

1) Tablet Azithromycin 500 mg once a day for five days.

2) Tablet Sinarest (Paracetamol, Chlorpheniramine maleate, Phenylephrine hydrochloride) one tablet twice daily.

3) Tablet Montelukast and Levocetirizine one tablet twice daily.

4) Tablet Naprosyn (Naproxen) 500 mg twice daily for three days.

I hope you have had both doses of your COVID vaccine.

Hope you will get well soon.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.