COVID-19
A respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus with symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
Overview
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. First identified in 2019, it has become endemic worldwide. While most people experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without special treatment, some develop serious illness. In 2025-2026, new variants continue to circulate, though vaccines and treatments have significantly improved outcomes. Symptoms can overlap significantly with flu and other respiratory illnesses, making testing important for diagnosis.
Common Age
Affects all ages; severity increases with age
Prevalence
Endemic worldwide; seasonal surges in winter
Duration
Most recover in 1-2 weeks; some develop long COVID
Common Symptoms
- Fever or chills
- Cough (dry or productive)
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue and body aches
- New loss of taste or smell (less common with newer variants)
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Headache
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Muscle or body aches
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Possible Causes
- SARS-CoV-2 virus infection
- Spread through respiratory droplets
- Close contact with infected person
- Airborne transmission in poorly ventilated spaces
- Contact with contaminated surfaces (less common)
Note: These are potential causes. A healthcare provider can help determine the specific cause in your case.
Quick Self-Care Tips
- 1Rest and stay hydrated
- 2Take fever reducers (acetaminophen/ibuprofen)
- 3Isolate from others to prevent spread
- 4Monitor your oxygen levels if possible
- 5Sleep on your stomach or side to help breathing
- 6Use a humidifier for congestion
- 7Contact healthcare provider if high-risk
- 8Consider antiviral treatment if eligible
Disclaimer: These are general wellness suggestions, not medical treatment recommendations. They may help manage symptoms but should not replace professional medical care.
Detailed Treatment & Solutions
1REST AND HYDRATION
Get plenty of rest to help your immune system fight the virus. Drink water, clear broths, herbal teas. Avoid alcohol and caffeine which can cause dehydration.
2SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT
Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and body aches. Honey (for adults) can soothe coughs. Saline nasal spray helps congestion. Throat lozenges for sore throat.
3BREATHING EXERCISES
If experiencing mild shortness of breath, practice pursed-lip breathing. Lie on your stomach (proning) to help lung function. Use a humidifier. Sit upright rather than lying flat.
4ANTIVIRAL TREATMENT
Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) is available for high-risk patients if started within 5 days of symptoms. Contact your doctor promptly if you have risk factors.
5MONITORING
Use a pulse oximeter to check oxygen levels (should be 95% or above). Track symptoms daily. Watch for warning signs like difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion.
6ISOLATION
Stay home and away from others for at least 5 days. Wear a mask if you must be around others. Most contagious in first few days of illness.
Important: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen. The solutions above are for educational purposes and may not be suitable for everyone.
Risk Factors
- Age 65+
- Weakened immune system
- Chronic lung disease
- Heart conditions
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Unvaccinated status
Prevention
- Stay up to date on vaccines
- Wash hands frequently
- Improve ventilation indoors
- Wear masks in high-risk situations
- Stay home when sick
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- New confusion or inability to stay awake
- Pale, gray, or bluish skin/lips/nails
- Oxygen saturation below 94%
- Symptoms that worsen after initial improvement
- High-risk conditions (elderly, immunocompromised, chronic illness)
Talk to a Healthcare Provider
If your symptoms are persistent, severe, or concerning, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
QHow is COVID different from the flu?
COVID and flu can have similar symptoms, but COVID more often causes loss of taste/smell and tends to cause longer illness in some people. COVID can also lead to more severe complications and long-term symptoms. A test is the only way to know for sure which virus you have.
QShould I get tested if I have symptoms?
Yes, testing helps you know whether you have COVID so you can take appropriate precautions and potentially access antiviral treatments. Rapid antigen tests work best when you have symptoms. A negative test early in illness should be repeated if symptoms continue.
Related Conditions
Common Cold
A viral infection of the upper respiratory tract causing runny nose, sore throat, and congestion.
Influenza (Flu)
A contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.
Bronchitis
Inflammation of the bronchial tubes causing cough with mucus, chest discomfort, and fatigue.
Long COVID (Post-COVID Syndrome)
Persistent symptoms lasting weeks or months after initial COVID-19 infection.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you have regarding a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Information last reviewed: January 2026
This page provides educational information only. It is not medical advice.