Be cautious if you have this common Covid symptom
The NHS has issued a stern warning to anyone experiencing a common Covid symptom, cautioning that ignoring the advice could lead to further complications. This comes as Covid cases remain high across the UK, largely due to the prevalent strains, Status and Nimbus.
The latest list of Covid symptoms on the NHS website includes a high temperature or shivering, a new, continuous cough, a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste, shortness of breath, and feeling tired or exhausted. Additional symptoms include body aches, headaches, a sore throat, a blocked or runny nose, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, and nausea or vomiting.
The most frequent Nimbus symptoms include an intensely sore throat (often felt while swallowing), persistent tiredness, a mild cough, nasal congestion or a runny nose, fever and muscle aches, sneezing, and less frequently digestive symptoms like nausea or diarrhoea. The Stratus variant causes similar symptoms with the addition of a persistent dry cough, a ‘razor blade’ sore throat, and a hoarse or raspy voice.
Both strains share one common symptom: a persistent cough. Not only can this symptom cause discomfort, but it should also be checked if it lasts more than three weeks. The NHS also warns against a certain action, as doing so could exacerbate the cough, reports the Mirror.
The health service advises: “Do not lie on your back if you have a cough – lie on your side or sit upright instead.” When battling a cough, it’s crucial to avoid lying flat on your back as this can cause mucus to build up at the back of your throat, triggering more coughing fits.
This happens due to postnasal drip and gravitational effects. To ensure proper mucus drainage, it’s recommended to keep yourself propped up with additional pillows or rest on your side.
Should you experience postnasal drip persisting for several days, it can trigger various complications, including a persistent cough, throat irritation, and voice changes. In more serious cases, it might lead to severe conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or infections spreading to the sinuses. It can also exacerbate asthma symptoms.
Should your cough be severe or persist for an extended period, it’s wise to consult a GP to rule out any underlying conditions, such as heart failure, as a dry nighttime cough can sometimes signal such health issues.
Additional ‘do not’ guidance from the NHS includes:
- do not use a fan to cool your room as it may spread the virus
- try not to panic if you’re feeling breathless – this can make it worse
Managing Covid symptoms at home
Whilst it’s not always feasible to treat COVID-19 directly, there are steps you can take to alleviate some symptoms, including fever, coughing and breathing difficulties. Do:
- get plenty of rest
- drink lots of water to prevent dehydration (your urine should be pale yellow or clear) Take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you’re feeling unwell
- If you have a cough, try having a teaspoon of honey – but remember not to give honey to babies under 12 months
- To help with breathlessness, consider turning down the heating or opening a window
- Breathe slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth, with your lips together as if you’re gently blowing out a candle
- Sitting upright in a chair can also assist with breathlessness
- Relax your shoulders so you’re not hunched, this can also aid with breathlessness
- Lean forward slightly – support yourself by placing your hands on your knees or on something stable like a chair to help manage breathlessness
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