COVID-19: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
COVID-19 - A respiratory illness caused by SARS-CoV-2, ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe pneumonia.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Most people have mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without hospital treatment. Older adults and people with heart disease, diabetes, lung disease or weak immunity are more likely to become seriously ill. Some people have symptoms lasting weeks or months, known as long COVID.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Spread through respiratory droplets and aerosols
- Close contact in crowded, poorly ventilated spaces
- Higher risk of severe illness with age and chronic conditions
Signs and Symptoms
- Fever or chills
- Cough and sore throat
- Tiredness and body aches
- Loss of taste or smell
- Headache, runny nose
- Breathlessness in more severe cases
Red Flags: When to See a Doctor Urgently
- Difficulty breathing
- SpO2 below 92-94% on home oximeter
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- New confusion or bluish lips
Diagnosis: Tests, Lab and Imaging
Rapid antigen tests and PCR tests detect the virus. Oxygen saturation and chest imaging are used in more serious cases.
Treatment and Medicines
Most people need rest, fluids and fever relief such as paracetamol. Antiviral treatments may be offered to high-risk patients early in illness. Severe cases need oxygen and hospital care.
Emergency
If you notice any red-flag sign, call 1122 (Pakistan), 911 (USA), 999 (UK) or 112 (Europe), or go to the nearest emergency department. See our emergency first aid guide.
Complications
Pneumonia, blood clots, heart inflammation and long COVID.
Prevention
- Stay up to date with recommended vaccines
- Ventilate indoor spaces
- Wear a mask when ill around others
- Wash hands; stay home when sick
Outlook and Follow-up
Most people recover fully. Vaccination lowers the risk of severe illness.
Patient Education
Write down your questions before appointments, bring a list of all medicines, and ask what results mean for you. Use our symptom checker to learn which departments relate to your symptoms. This COVID-19 guide is educational and reviewed against WHO, CDC and NIH sources by the ghkh.site editorial team.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long am I contagious?
People are most infectious in the first few days of symptoms. Follow local public health guidance.
Should I use a pulse oximeter?
It can help high-risk people monitor oxygen at home.
Can I take ibuprofen for COVID-19?
Paracetamol or ibuprofen can relieve symptoms for most people; ask a pharmacist if you have other conditions.
Sources
We summarise these sources in our own words. Mention of an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Recommended Home Health Tools
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, ghkh.site earns from qualifying purchases. This does not change the price you pay or our editorial choices. Links go to Amazon.com search results; we do not list prices or ratings because they change often. Devices support home monitoring and do not replace a doctor.