How to Get Over COVID Fast

What to do if You Have COVID-19

1. Follow Isolation Guidelines

If you test positive for COVID-19, it is important to follow the isolation guidelines set by the CDC. This will help ensure that you don’t spread the virus to other people, who could be vulnerable. Current CDC isolation guidelines are as follows:

• Stay home and isolate from others in your home for at least 5 days (day 1 being the first full day of symptoms or the day you test positive)
• Wear a high-quality mask if you must be around others at home and in public
• Do not travel
• Use a separate bathroom, if possible
• Take steps to improve ventilation at home, if possible
• Don’t share personal household items, like cups, towels, and utensils
• Monitor your symptoms and seek emergency care if you develop trouble breathing

2. Rest & Stay Hydrated

COVID-19 can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, cough, and fatigue, according to the Mayo Clinic. The Mayo Clinic also notes that resting and staying hydrated are great ways to support your recovery. Everyday Health also notes that you should pause your workout routine while you have symptoms.

3. Take Over-the-Counter Medication for Fever and Body Aches

Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen can be used to help reduce a fever or relieve body aches and headaches from COVID-19, according to the Mayo Clinic. They recommend that you follow the instructions on the label.

4. Check to see if an Antiviral Medication is Available for You

There are two anti-viral medications formulated to treat COVID-19 (Paxlovid and Lagevrio), according to Everyday Health. Seeing a doctor is the only way to get a prescription, however, this can sometimes be done via a telehealth appointment. In most cases, antiviral medication must be started within 72 hours of symptom onset or testing positive. The CDC recommends these anti-viral medications for anyone who is at high risk for a severe infection, including people over 65 and immunocompromised people. It is important to note that monoclonal antibodies that were used early in the pandemic are no longer useful for the current strains, according to the CDC.

5. Monitor Your Symptoms

It is important to monitor your symptoms while you are treating COVID-19 at home, so you know if you need to seek medical attention. Here are some signs to watch for, according to the Mayo Clinic:

• Trouble breathing
• Constant chest pain or pressure
• Trouble staying awake
• New confusion
• Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds—depending on your skin color

Who’s at Higher Risk for Complications From COVID-19?

If you are in a high-risk group, it is important to be especially vigilant about monitoring your symptoms and seeking medical attention if necessary. According to the CDC, high-risk groups include:

• Older adults (65+)
• People with underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease
• People with weakened immune systems
• Pregnant women

If you are in a high-risk group, it is important to contact your healthcare provider right away since an antiviral medication could be appropriate for you. Your medical provider can help you determine the best course of action and provide guidance on how to manage your symptoms.

Prevention Strategies

1. Vaccination

The most effective way to prevent COVID-19 is to get vaccinated, according to the CDC. They note that evidence shows vaccines are safe and effective in reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. The CDC recommends that everyone eligible for vaccination should get vaccinated as soon as possible and stay up-to-date with boosters.

You can learn more about the 2023 COVID-19 booster and how to get vaccinated with Solv.

2. Wash Your Hands to Reduce the Risk of Transmission

You can reduce the risk of getting sick with COVID-19 and other illnesses by washing your hands, according to the CDC. They recommend the following steps:

• Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap
• Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails
• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds (enough time to hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice)
• Rinse your hands well under clean, running water
• Dry your hands using a clean towel or an air dryer

3. Other Ways to Reduce Risk of Transmission

The CDC also notes other ways you can reduce your risk of getting sick or passing the illness on to someone else:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Stay home if you are feeling unwell
• Wear a mask in public settings, especially when social distancing is difficult
• Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet from others
• Avoid large gatherings and crowded places

4. Support Your Immune System With a Healthy Lifestyle

Evidence shows that people with comorbidities have a harder time recovering from COVID-19, according to the CDC. They also note that your lifestyle choices can help reduce or improve your comorbidities. Here are some lifestyle changes you can make:

• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Exercise daily (be sure to check with your doctor before starting or modifying your exercise routine)
• Get routine health and wellness checkups
• Stay up-to-date with all your recommended immunizations

Important Things to Remember When You Have COVID-19

COVID-19 continues to be a common illness, as the pandemic continues in most areas of the world. Here’s how to take care of yourself if you find yourself experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or testing positive:

• Stay hydrated
• Get plenty of rest
• Take over-the-counter medications for your fever and body aches
• Ask a healthcare provider if an antiviral medication is right for you
• Monitor your symptoms
• Go to urgent care if your symptoms worsen or if you have difficulty breathing

Remember that if you are experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, it's important to take action to protect yourself and others. Follow the CDC's recommendations for isolation and masking.