How to manage your COVID-19 symptoms Fever Fever is your body’s way of fighting infection and is a common symptom of COVID-19. If you have a high temperature, it can help if you get lots of rest and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Drink enough so your pee is light yellow and clear. You can take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you feel uncomfortable. • • • • • •
Make sure the room temperature is comfortable (not too hot or too cold). If possible, open a window for fresh air but avoid draughts. Wear lightweight clothing and use lighter bedding. Use a cool cloth to wash your face, hands and neck. Change bed linen and clothing regularly, especially if they are wet from sweat. Do not use hot water bottles or electric blankets.
Headaches and body aches Body aches due to COVID-19 can feel like a dull, aching sensation in your muscles. This sensation could affect one or several parts of your body and may range from mild to severe. Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with headaches and body aches. A bath may also be soothing.
Blocked or runny nose Use saline nose drops or spray to help soothe or clear a stuffy nose. Medicated decongestants such as oxymetazoline (Drixine®) and xylometazoline (Otrivin®) may also be helpful but be aware that they are only for short term use. Do not use them for longer than 7 days. If you use them for longer than this, a more severe congestion of your nose can happen. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which medication will be the best for you. Some people find steam inhalation helpful in relieving congestion but there is no scientific evidence that steam inhalation is effective for the treatment or prevention of COVID-19. In fact it may do more harm than good by burning the lining of your lungs. It can also make asthma symptoms worse.
Sore throat Suck a teaspoon of honey, gargle with salt water, or gargle with warm water to ease a sore throat. Sucking on sugar-free lollies or lozenges also helps. You can also try using a gargle, throat spray or pain-relief (anaesthetic) lozenges.
For more information about COVID topics: hn.org.nz/covid19 1