COVID-19
-
- Tweet
WestsideMed
Urgent Care & Primary Care Practice located in Atlanta, GA
If you develop a fever, sore throat, or shortness of breath, and your symptoms persist for more than a day or two, get tested for COVID-19. At WestsideMed, the team offers COVID-19 testing on-site. Following a diagnosis, they can make recommendations for treatment to help you feel better. To make an appointment at the practice in Atlanta, Georgia, call the office or schedule online.
COVID-19 Q&A
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19, or the novel coronavirus, is a fast-spreading viral infection that attacks the upper respiratory system. COVID-19 presents similar symptoms to the common cold and the seasonal flu, but it’s much more deadly.
Fortunately, with early diagnosis and treatment, it’s possible to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Some of the symptoms specifically linked to COVID-19 include:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Dry cough
- Chills
- Loss of taste and smell
- Fever
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches and pains
If you have COVID-19, you might also experience gastrointestinal upset, like vomiting, nausea, or diarrhea.
What should I do if I experience the symptoms of COVID-19?
If you think you might have COVID-19, contact the team at WestsideMed right away. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, they can recommend the next steps, such as staying home and monitoring your symptoms or visiting the office for an evaluation.
How is COVID-19 diagnosed?
The team at WestsideMed diagnosis COVID-19 using tests, including:
Diagnostic tests
During a diagnostic test, your provider carefully swabs your nose and throat and sends it to a laboratory for analysis. Whenever possible, the team provides results within 24 hours, and often, much sooner.
Antibody tests
An antibody test determines if you’ve had COVID-19 in the past. This type of test involves your provider drawing a sample of your blood. A laboratory analyzes your sample for the presence of COVID-19 antibodies –– proteins that protect your immune system from the virus.
How is COVID-19 treated?
Most cases of COVID-19 respond to conservative, at-home measures of care like drinking plenty of fluids, getting plenty of rest, and taking over-the-counter flu and cold remedies. More severe cases may require hospitalization or the use of a ventilator.
Is there any way to prevent COVID-19?
There’s no way to prevent COVID-19 entirely, but you can significantly reduce your risk of infection by getting vaccinated. The team at WestsideMed offers COVID-19 vaccines to any adult who wants one.
If you’re unvaccinated, the team recommends preventing transmission of the virus by social distancing, wearing a cloth facial covering in crowded spaces, and frequently washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with warm soap and water.
If you’re concerned about your risk of COVID-19, make an appointment at WestsideMed by calling the office or scheduling online today.
