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Aug 27
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Navigating COVID in 2024

Navigating COVID in 2024

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As we move through 2024, COVID-19 is still a part of our lives, but the virus has changed since the pandemic began in 2020. Thankfully, today’s COVID infections tend to produce milder symptoms, likely due to the virus becoming less severe over time and the fact that many of us have either been vaccinated or previously infected, giving our immune systems a better chance to fight off the current variants.

Common COVID Symptoms: What to Watch For

Mild COVID-19 cases now often resemble other respiratory illnesses like the flu or RSV. While symptoms may start out mild, they can become more severe, particularly for the elderly, those with underlying health conditions, or people with compromised immune systems.
Here’s a quick rundown of common COVID symptoms:
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Body aches
  • Headache
  • Congestion
  • Loss of taste or smell (less common now than early in the pandemic)
If you notice these symptoms, it’s a good idea to consider whether you might have COVID.

How Do I Know If I Have COVID?

Home tests are generally reliable for detecting the latest COVID variants. However, if you test early in your infection, you might get a negative result. If your symptoms persist, retesting after 1-2 days is often a good idea. If you’re infected, the test is usually positive by then.
Urgent care centers and clinics also offer rapid COVID tests, which provide results in 10-20 minutes, and PCR tests, which are sent to a lab and take 2-3 days for results and are the most sensitive and reliable. For most cases, a home test will give you a clear answer. Remember, symptoms can appear 2-14 days after exposure, and it’s possible to be an asymptomatic carrier, meaning you can spread the virus without showing symptoms but may subsequently develop symptoms.

COVID Treatment in 2024

If your symptoms are manageable, the best thing you can do is stay home and rest for the first five days. Isolate yourself until you feel better. While symptoms can last 5-10 days, most people start to feel better sooner. During those initial five days, you’re likely contagious, so it’s important to stay isolated. If symptoms persist beyond five days, you may still be contagious until they fully resolve.
Over-the-counter medications can help ease symptoms. For those at higher risk, such as the elderly, individuals with conditions like asthma or diabetes, and those with weakened immune systems, Paxlovid is a prescription medication that can reduce the risk of hospitalization.

When to Seek Medical Care

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek urgent medical care immediately:
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Persistent chest pain or pressure
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness or weakness that makes it hard to stand or walk
These could be signs of a more severe case of COVID that requires prompt medical attention.

Protecting Yourself from COVID

The steps you take to avoid the flu, RSV, and other respiratory diseases will also help protect you from COVID. Wash your hands frequently, wear a mask in crowded places (especially if COVID cases are rising in your area), and consider getting the 2024-2025 COVID vaccine this fall, along with your flu shot.
If you’re in need of medical care, Sand Canyon Urgent Care in Irvine (949-417-0272) and Sand Canyon Urgent Care Laguna Hills (949-206-4633) are here to help. Feel free to call or visit us for any of your healthcare needs.
Aug 16
0

Sunburn vs. Sun Poisoning: Know the Difference

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Enjoying the great outdoors in Southern California often means spending time in the sun. While fun, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks of sun exposure, like sunburn and sun poisoning. Though they might seem similar, there are key differences between the two.

 

Sunburn

 

Sunburn is a common result of unprotected sun exposure. Even on cloudy days, harmful UV rays can penetrate the skin and cause:

  • Redness
  • Itching
  • Burning sensation
  • Peeling skin

While uncomfortable, sunburn is usually mild and can be treated at home with cool compresses, aloe vera, moisturizers, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

 

Sun Poisoning (Heat Illness)

 

Sun poisoning, or heat illness, is a more severe reaction to sun exposure. It goes beyond the typical symptoms of sunburn and can affect the whole body. Symptoms may include:

  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Skin blisters

Sun poisoning requires urgent medical attention. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications.

 

Preventing Sunburn and Sun Poisoning

 

Prevention is key when it comes to sun-related health issues. Here are some tips to protect yourself:

  • Wear sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours.
  • Seek shade: Limit direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 am – 4 pm).
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
  • Be aware of medications: Some medications such as Accutane can increase your sensitivity to the sun. Talk to your doctor about any potential risks.

When to Seek Medical Attention

 

If you experience symptoms of sun poisoning, such as fever, chills, nausea, or blisters, seek medical attention immediately. For less severe sunburn, home treatment is usually sufficient. However, if your sunburn is extensive, painful, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s best to consult a doctor.

 

Sand Canyon Urgent Care

 If you develop symptoms of sun poisoning such as fever, chills, nausea, headache, or skin blisters, you should seek urgent medical care. 

Sand Canyon Urgent Care in Irvine (949-417-0272) and Sand Canyon Urgent Care in Laguna Hills (949-206-4633) are here to serve your medical needs. 

 

Remember, enjoying the sun safely is possible with the right precautions. By understanding the difference between sunburn and sun poisoning, you can take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.