While we hear and see distressing news on the extreme crunch of medical resources, here is a SILVER LINING:

The vast majority of those who get infected will recover through treatment at home.

Here is a short thread to help you navigate home treatment

1/n

When should I get tested?

(a) Within 2 to 3 days of having Covid19 symptoms. Test slots and reports are getting delayed across cities now, so plan in advance. Do not hesitate.
(b) Came in contact with a Covid19 +ve person: Test 5 days after last contact.

2/n

Not getting a slot for RT-PCR tests and I have symptoms. What should I do?
Consult a doctor. Do not delay getting treatment due to delay in test results. Doctors can advise medication based on symptoms, additional blood tests, medical condition etc.

3/n

Should I isolate while waiting for test results?
Yes, it's critical. You need to protect others around you, especially in your household from getting infected. Their health is primary and having a caretaker in the event of you testing +ve is critical. Mask up and isolate!

4/n

I got my test results and it's Covid19 positive. What do I do next?

(a) Get your home care kit ready. Refer attached.
(b) Consult a doctor who can advise medical prescription and assess severity of infection.

Do not, please do not self medicate. Consult a doctor.

5/n

I do not know any doctors around. What should I do?
Please use one of the many virtual doctor consultation apps. Major hospitals in cities are also offering video consultation now.

You can sign up for a home treatment package from hospitals as well.

6/n

What does a home treatment package include?
It varies from hospital to hospital, but it typically includes: Daily check by nurse, periodic check by doctor, advise by nutritionist, physiotherapist, psychologist etc.
This can be a constant help in your recovery process.

7/n

Can all Covid19 +ve persons be in home treatment?
No. This assessment should be done by your doctor. If you have breathing difficulties, risky co-morbidities, oxygen saturation falling below 94 etc. home treatment may not be ideal for you.

8/n

Is there any specific diet to be followed during recovery?
Maintain a protein rich diet with adequate amount of fluids.

Should I exercise during the recovery period?
Light exercises can aid in the recovery process. Breathing exercises are also recommended.

9/n

When should I consider hospitalisation?
Again a call that should be made by a doctor.
But, red flags to be considered are:
Breathlessness/difficulty to breath, oxygen saturation repeatedly falling below 94.

10/n

How long will it take for one to recover?
It varies from person to person. For some, symptoms subside in a week's time, for some it might take 10 to 14 days and for some more than 2 weeks. 14 to 17 days is a common timeline. Be patient, follow your doctor's guidelines.

11/n

Can a senior citizen recover at home?
Absolutely. Depending on the symptoms, senior citizens can fully recover from Covid19 through home treatment. Early detection and timely medication is important to reduce complications.

12/n

Is it normal to have fatigue after recovery?
Yes. Many report medium to long term health impacts of Covid19, including tiredness and fatigue. It is common to experience this. Keep consulting your doctor and take care of your diet/mental wellness.

n/n

Recovering from Covid19 at home is the best recovery route to have right now.
Testing early and getting early medical help is important for this. Do not hesitate to get tested or consult a doctor on testing +ve.

Early intervention could save one from hospitalisation.