COVID-19 induced shortness of breath can feel like you are constantly trying to catch your breath, even when resting. This sensation of not getting enough air can be alarming and is a key symptom to monitor when you are sick. For individuals and families in the Burlington area, understanding what this symptom feels like and when it signals a need for medical attention is vital for managing a COVID-19 infection safely. In this blog, we will discuss COVID-19 related shortness of breath, how to recognize it, and how AFC Urgent Care Burlington can provide convenient same-day care. Walk into the clinic today, or save your spot online in advance below.
What Causes Shortness Of Breath With COVID-19
COVID-19 induced shortness of breath, or dyspnea, happens when the virus causes inflammation and damage to the lungs. This makes it harder for your lungs to transfer oxygen into your bloodstream, leading to a feeling of breathlessness. It can range from mild, only noticeable during physical activity, to severe, making it difficult to breathe even while sitting still. This symptom can develop a few days into the illness and is a sign that the infection may be affecting your respiratory system more significantly.
Tips for Identifying Severe COVID-19 Symptoms
Recognizing severe symptoms from a respiratory infection like COVID-19 is essential. While some cases will resolve on their own, severe symptoms like shortness of breath often require medical treatment. Severe symptoms like shortness of breath can sometimes be subtle at first. You might feel winded after simple tasks that normally wouldn't cause any trouble, like walking up a short flight of stairs or carrying groceries.
Severe symptoms to watch for include:
- Feeling like you can’t get a full, deep breath
- A sensation of tightness in your chest
- Breathing more rapidly than usual without exertion
- Needing to pause to catch your breath while speaking
For both adults and parents monitoring children, paying attention to these signs is important. If you notice these symptoms developing, it is time to consider seeking a medical opinion.
How Do You Treat COVID-19 Related Symptoms
Treatment for COVID-19 primarily focuses on managing symptoms and supporting your body as it fights the virus. For mild cases, this includes rest, staying hydrated, and using over the counter medications for fever and pain. If shortness of breath is a symptom, a medical provider might recommend specific monitoring or treatments. At an urgent care center, they can evaluate your oxygen levels and lung function to determine the severity. In some cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed if you are at higher risk for severe illness and seek treatment early.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington For COVID-19 Symptom Treatment
You should seek medical evaluation if you are experiencing any level of shortness of breath with a COVID-19 infection. AFC Urgent Care Burlington provides an accessible option with short wait times for a prompt assessment. It is especially important to get care if you experience worsening shortness of breath, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion, or bluish lips or face, as these can be signs of a medical emergency. Our urgent care clinic is equipped to evaluate your symptoms and guide you on the appropriate next steps.
Our team at AFC Urgent Care Burlington is here to provide guidance and treatment for your COVID-19 symptoms. We offer a reliable medical evaluation without the long wait often associated with other healthcare options. Our clinic accepts most medical insurance plans and we have affordable rates for patients paying out of pocket for their care. For convenient same-day care for your respiratory illness symptoms and other non-life-threatening health concerns, walk into our Burlington clinic!
