The novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) doesn’t always cause symptoms. When it does, the most common include persistent coughing, a low-grade fever, and shortness of breath. Of course, symptoms like these can be caused by many other respiratory illnesses, such as bronchitis, and it can be hard to tell the difference on your own. So, what should you do?
Find Out if You Have COVID-19
COVID-19 is highly contagious and, in some cases, can be life-threatening. Therefore, it’s important to take every precaution and treat yourself as though you are infected if there is any chance you might be. If your symptoms are mild, precautions include resting at home and avoiding contact with others until you have fully recovered.
If you develop a fever or shortness of breath, you can request a virtual visit with a provider at Medella Urgent Care. During your remote consultation, we can prescreen you for COVID-19 and let you know if we believe genetic testing is appropriate. Currently, the only way to confirm a COVID-19 infection is to be tested by a medical professional. We offer curbside genetic testing in Magnolia and Vintage Park, Texas, which involves a relatively simple nasal swab.
Find Out if You Have Bronchitis
Acute bronchitis is a sudden swelling of your lung’s major airways, which can interfere with your breathing. Also known as a chest cold, acute bronchitis can be caused by the same respiratory viruses responsible for the common cold, flu—and COVID-19. In fact, acute bronchitis is a potential complication of COVID-19.
The main symptom of bronchitis is a dry, hacking cough that progresses into a productive cough. Other symptoms include fatigue, body aches, fever, chills, a runny nose, and a sore throat. Usually, acute bronchitis clears up on its own within a few weeks. However, it is important to seek medical attention for severe or persistent symptoms. If left untreated, acute bronchitis can become chronic or progress into pneumonia.
Medella Urgent Care is your trusted source of COVID-19 testing, bronchitis treatment, and other non-emergency urgent care services. To learn more, contact us today or visit our walk-in clinic in Magnolia, TX, or the Vintage Park area.
