A good plan now is much better than a rushed plan at the last minute.

Before you catch coronavirus there is one thing you need – a good plan! While still of sound mind and not bothered with shortness of breath, headaches, fever, runny nose, cough, etc., write down the medicines that you are on and for what reasons. If you remember how long you have been on them, include that also. Include your doctor’s contact information, family names and contact numbers.

If you do end up at a hospital, it is easier to give Admissions the details rather than trying to remember who, what, when, etc. Make sure a family member or a close friend has your list of medicines.

If you are on any supplements (vitamin C, vitamin D, etc.) include those also on your list. If you feel great and then things turn south (health-wise) start a journal of your symptoms by date, time, and symptom. It helps to identify how far along coronavirus (or another malady) has progressed.

There should be a family history of illnesses and deaths, but it is not as critical for coronavirus. If you don’t have an accurate family history, you should consider putting that together also, especially if you are not 60 years of age. You may be able to talk to older family members and their memories will be useful for family history.

Over the counter drugs for runny nose, headaches, etc. would be useful to have at home just in case your flu turns out to be a cold. Avoid anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Motrin and Advil). Researchers have found that these types of anti-inflammatory drugs can worsen the coronavirus infection. Paracetamol is recommended.

When in doubt, call your doctor and ask for guidance in the event you begin having symptoms.
Read the labels on the over the counter medicines to ensure they do not contain ibuprofen. Paracetamol is dosage-dependent. Please ensure that you read the directions before taking it. Liver damage can occur if you take too much.

Also, include in your plan is information regarding your home for family members. Plants to be watered, pets to feed/walk, mail pickup, packages expected, etc. are a few things that you don’t need to be worried about if you end up for a short stay in the hospital. If you do test positive for coronavirus, then your home, car, and other places need treatment. No one should go into your home without proper protection and forewarning.

If you do have symptoms that might be coronavirus, alert your doctor. Your initial plan should include home treatment. The odds are in your favor if you are under 60 years of age that you will have a full recovery. Self-imposed quarantine is absolutely required. You might only have a bad cold or the seasonal flu, but you won’t know until tested.

Keep yourself isolated until your physician advises you what to do. Keep family members of close friends aware of your daily progress. A little planning in advance works wonders when you are stricken with symptoms that weaken your will to begin a plan.

Live Longer & Enjoy Life! – Red O’Laughlin

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