Ministry of Health & FW has thus issued and updated guidelines for home isolation from time to
time to clarify selection criteria, precautions that need to be followed by such patients and their
families, signs that require monitoring and prompt reporting to health facilities.
The latest Omicron variant of COVID has created a lot of anxiety globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated it as a ‘variant of concern’ and steps are being taken internationally to contain the Omicron infections. While the healthcare experts continue their research to learn more about this variant, Ubiqare Health addresses commonly asked questions about symptoms, treatment options, etc.
Ganesh (name changed to protect privacy), a 46-years old male had undergone 15 days of COVID-19 treatment in May 2021 during the peak of second wave. After the initial treatment, he started complaining of uneasiness in his chest by end of May 2021. He also experienced pain in his calf muscles and joints. He had lost appetite and complained of nausea. He also had bouts of headache every now and then.
By now we know that COVID-19 patients may struggle with a wide variety of symptoms post their initial treatment. Symptoms of blood clotting, shortness of breath, fatigue, etc. are well documented and talked about. However, the psychological symptoms like depression or anxiety can go undetected. The psychological symptoms can affect COVID-19 patients without any prior history of such conditions.
Seetha (name changed to protect privacy), a 69 years old lady with no comorbidities tested positive for COVID-19 infection. She complained of dry cough and loss of appetite. She had no previous record of hospital admissions.
She had tested positive during the peak of the second wave. She did not meet the hospitalization criteria set by the government for COVID-19 infections. She was required to self-isolate at home. However, given her age, her family wanted medical oversight for her to ensure her recovery.
The time of recovery from Long COVID Fatigue varies from patient to patient. Doctors opine that most patients take between 4 to 12 weeks to fully recover from this. A post COVID care program can help these patients as they try to regain their normal life back.
By now it has become clear that the Coronavirus infection damages multiple organs like lungs, heart, brain, kidney, etc. In cases of long haul COVID, it becomes all the more crucial to watch out for any substantial damage to other organs of the body.
COVID has many silent complications. It affects multiple organs and body systems – making hospitalization necessary sometimes. However, there are times when a patient continues to experience symptoms and distress even after discharge from hospital or completion of treatment tenure. This can be an indicator of Long COVID.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has addressed some of these questions in it’s FAQ document. The document addresses questions around impact of COVID-19 on people with hypertension, diabetes, and heart diseases. It provides useful tips for such patients on minimizing exposure and associated risks, medications, daily habits, hygiene etc.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued a revised discharge policy for COVID-19 patients. The policy is aligned with the guidelines on the 3 tier COVID facilities and the categorization of the patients based on clinical severity.