How to Know if You Have COVID & When You Should See a Doctor

Common COVID-19 Symptoms

COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe and can appear anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus, according to the CDC. Some common symptoms, according to the CDC, include:

• Fever or chills
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• A new loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

It is important to note that not everyone with COVID-19 will experience all of these symptoms, and some individuals may be asymptomatic (showing no symptoms), according to the CDC.

Here’s how the symptoms of COVID-19 compare to other viruses:

Getting Tested for COVID-19

Nowadays, there are several testing methods available that can accurately detect a COVID-19 infection. The most common tests you’ll hear about are:

PCR Testing

This test is considered the gold standard for COVID-19 diagnosis, according to the CDC. It detects the genetic material of the virus in a person's respiratory sample. The result usually takes a few days to come back, according to the CDC.

Antigen Test

This test detects specific proteins on the surface of the virus. It is less sensitive than PCR but it can provide results much faster (usually within 15 to 30 minutes). Antigen tests are tests that you can do at home.

Antibody Test

This test detects antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the virus. It can be used to determine if someone has been infected with COVID-19 in the past, according to the CDC. The CDC also notes that this type of testing is usually done to test for conditions associated with COVID-19.

Where to Get COVID-19 Testing

COVID-19 tests are available at various locations, according to the CDC. Some places include:

• Hospitals
• Primary care clinics
• Public health office or health department
• Urgent care clinics

In some places, you may still find COVID-19 testing centers, although these are less common than they were in the early days of the pandemic. You can also purchase antigen tests online or from a retail pharmacy, and perform them at home. As of the publication of this article, you can also order 4 free COVID-19 tests from the U.S. government at covid.gov.

Testing is important if you think that you have been exposed to COVID-19 or if you are experiencing symptoms of it. Early detection can help you prevent the spread of the virus to others and help you get treatment if you need it.

What to do

What to do With Your Test Results

If you test positive for COVID-19, you should follow the CDC recommendations for self-isolation and follow the guidance of your healthcare provider to prevent the spread of the virus. If you test negative, it is still important to practice preventive measures such as wearing a mask, social distancing, and washing your hands frequently.

How to Test for COVID-19 At-Home

If you suspect that you have COVID-19, a home test can help you determine if you have the virus or not. At-home tests are usually available for purchase at retail pharmacies (like Walgreens or CVS), and even some retail stores (like Walmart, Kroger, and others). Home tests are also easy to use and understand.

Step-by-Step Guide for At-Home Testing

Here is a guide to at-home COVID-19 testing, provided by UC Davis:

1. Read the instructions for your COVID-19 test carefully
2. Wash your hands thoroughly before you begin testing
3. Most kits come with two tests, and each test contains three main items: a collection swab, a test strip, and a small vial of liquid. Place all of these items on a clean surface.
4. Open the collection swab and insert it into each nostril, rotating five times against the inner wall. You should insert the swab ½ to ¾ of an inch into the nostrils.
5. Tap the bottom of the vial of liquid three times on a hard surface.
6. Open the large cap and insert your swab into the vial, then stir the swab 15 times.
7. Squeeze the sides of the vial against the swab as you pull it out.
8. Open the test strip and lay it on the counter, with the control window facing up.
9. Open the smaller, top cap on the vial of liquid, then squeeze three drops of your sample into the collection area of the strip.
10. Set a timer for the amount of time that the directions specify. Don’t disturb the test strip during this time.
11. Read your test.

It is important to note that not all COVID-19 home tests are the same, so it is important to read the package instructions carefully before performing the test.

Tips for Accuracy and Reliability

To ensure accurate and reliable results, UC Davis recommends following these tips:

• Make sure to collect the sample correctly.
• Read the instructions carefully and follow them closely.
• Store the test kit at the recommended temperature.
• Check the expiration date before using the test kit.
• Use the test kit as soon as possible after opening it.

Using At-Home COVID-19 Tests on Children

UC Davis notes that antigen tests are not approved for children under the age of 2. If your child under the age of 2 needs to be tested for COVID-19, they recommend going to a pediatrician or urgent care clinic.

Final Note on Home Testing

Remember, at-home tests are not 100% accurate and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. The CDC notes that if you have a negative result but you have symptoms of COVID-19 or know that you were exposed, you should retest in 48 hours.

What to do if You’re Positive for COVID-19

If you have tested positive for COVID-19, it is important that you isolate yourself to prevent the spread of the virus. Below you’ll find more guidelines for self-isolation and self-care strategies for managing mild COVID-19 symptoms, from the Mayo Clinic.

1. Self-Isolate From Others

• Stay home from work, school, events, and public areas unless it is to get medical care.
• Avoid using public transportation, taxis, or ride-sharing services (like Uber).
• Stay isolated in one room, away from your family, others, and pets, as much as you can. Eat in your room. Open windows to keep the air moving. Fans can also help direct air out of windows.
• If you can't open windows, consider using filtered air purifiers. Additionally, you should turn on exhaust fans in your bathroom and kitchen.
• Use a separate bathroom if you can. If you can’t, be sure to disinfect all surfaces after use and store your toothbrush separately.
• Avoid shared space in your home as much as you can. When using shared spaces, limit your movements. Make sure your kitchen and other shared spaces have good airflow (open windows if possible).
• Clean often-touched surfaces in your room and bathroom (this includes doorknobs, light switches, electronics, and counters).
• Avoid sharing personal household items, such as dishes, towels, bedding, and electronics (such as phones, tablets, and gaming controllers).
• Wear a high-quality face mask that covers your nose and mouth. A N95 or KN95 is best.
• Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't nearby, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol.

2. Manage Mild COVID-19 Symptoms With Home Care

• Rest and stay hydrated.
• Take over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve body aches and headaches.
• Use a humidifier or take a hot shower to help with congestion.
• Stay in touch with your healthcare provider and follow their instructions.
• If you have difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips or face, seek medical attention immediately.

3. End Your Isolation at the Right Time

At the time of this article's publication, the current CDC guidelines for isolation are as follows:

• Stay home and isolate from others in your home for at least 5 days (day 0 is the day you test positive, or the day you first develop symptoms).
• End isolation after day 5 if you have been fever-free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medications) and your other symptoms are improving.

Caring for Others Who Are Sick With COVID-19

The Mayo Clinic offers these tips for caring for family or household members who become ill with COVID-19:

• Keep your hands clean and away from your face
• Wear a face mask
• Clean your home often
• Avoid direct contact with the sick person's fluids by wearing gloves and a mask
• Avoid having visitors in your home

When to Seek Medical Care for COVID-19

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms or situations, the CDC recommends that you seek medical attention right away:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion or inability to stay awake
• Pale, gray, or bluish-colored lips, skin, or nail beds

While most people with COVID-19 will have mild to moderate symptoms and can recover at home, COVID-19 can be a serious illness for some people. This is why it is important to know when to seek medical care.