Covid-19? We tell you what you can do to treat yourself at home

Covid-19 is an illness we have to live with, just like seasonal flu. If you are diagnosed, here we tell you how to cope with it at home and in what cases it is advisable to see a doctor.

The alarms about coronavirus worldwide remain on, also showing variants like delta and omicron, which contribute to the daily increase in infections and the rise in intensive care units in each country.

While the omicron variant of Covid-19 is more severe in unvaccinated individuals, the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that this is a more transmissible variant (meaning it spreads more easily from person to person) and its symptoms are mild, especially among young people or those who already have the full vaccination schedule.

How to act upon suspicion of a Covid-19 infection?

Early detection of the illness will allow us greater maneuverability in how we should manage a Covid-19 diagnosis. We know that in countries like Colombia, many families are large, and therefore if there is any suspicion, a mask should be worn and biosafety protocols should be applied (hand washing, separate utensils and bathrooms, among others).

"The illness can be treated with Acetaminophen, paracetamol, or ibuprofen for pain and fever. Over-the-counter cough medications, rest, and hydration are measures that can be taken at home," said Dr. Elmer Huerta, a Peruvian physician specialized in public health, in an article for "CNN en español."

Monitor the daily progression of the illness

Constant monitoring of our illness will be key to staying at home or seeking help in emergency care. According to Dr. Huerta, "it is important to use a pulse oximeter to monitor blood oxygen saturation, which should always be above 95%. Immediate medical consultation should be sought if saturation falls below that value."

One should also consider the evolution of the cough, its intensity, and whether mucus is present when expectorating. On some occasions, bowel movements may present mild or severe changes accompanied by dehydration.

When to go to the emergency room?

• If the patient cannot breathe
• If the patient turns purple or their lips and hands are white
• When there is severe headache
• Fever above 38 degrees that does not decrease
• Oxygen saturation below normal levels (95)
• Frequent periods of vomiting and diarrhea
• Severe pain between chest and back that is limiting.

Flower essences as an ally

It has been demonstrated by the WHO that flower essences are a great adjunct in managing certain illnesses, and there are no studies demonstrating their effects against the symptoms generated by Covid-19.

However, they are useful in the prevention and management of side effects, of course, without replacing the recommendations or medications recommended by specialists.

Flower essences can contribute to the improvement and relief of tiredness, weakness, or fatigue, and to strengthening the immune system.

Regarding flower essences, we can find:

Olive:

The Olive flower essence is useful for altered states of vitality and allows us to recover our spirits and strength when physical or mental reserves have been depleted, or better, chronic fatigue.

Wild Crab Apple

The Wild Crab Apple flower essence helps with the emotional detoxification that the body and mind do not need. It is an essence that cleanses and purifies, and can be used topically on wounds and injuries.

Epilobium

Normalizes vital or restorative energy after a shock or trauma with aftereffects at any level: mental, emotional, or physical.

Flower essence: Epilobium

Optimal Immunity

Gives strength and protection to our body and our entire energy. It instills emotional and mental security.