Wellness Update

I added Nyquil (a generic version) to the mix, and Zicam, and – WOW! I slept like a log. When I woke a few minutes ago, I was clear, not coughing, and feeling almost human. Kudos to the companies that make it, the meds really work like it says.

What woke me was not my C-symptoms, but aches and pains from my joint issues. I took care of that (If you’ve some wear-and-tear arthritis, my doctor recommended Arthritis Strength Tylenol. One dose often gets me back on my feet the next day, with no further problems.)

Disclaimer: I’m not a doctor, just passing along what OTC meds helped me through this.

So, that’s my suggestion if you DO get COVID:

• See your doctor/urgent care. Get the test. I assume you’ve had symptoms before heading there, so a false positive is not a concern.
• If they see wheezing/serious congestion, you likely need further care. Get it.
• Stop at the drug store or go on Amazon and get an O2 sensor – like this. If you’re asthmatic, get a peak flow meter. Get both today, before you have need, you will never regret having it. Why is that important? Those are two of the things they will be checking when you go to an emergency room. They use them because how you FEEL often has very little relation to how serious the problem is. You can be in real trouble, and feel OK (not great, but not in danger, either). Most Medicare Advantage plans have an allowance for OTC, and these are two of the items you might be able to get with that allowance.
• If your O2 is good, you’re not struggling to breathe, and you aren’t in need of an ambulance trip, take action. Load up on OTCs. Treat this like a very bad cold. You should see a good response in 24 hours.
• Let local people know about your condition. Ask them to call you and text you for updates on your condition. You need backup to make sure that you don’t slip into problems without oversight.
• Keep a record of those O2 and peak flow measurements, and if you need to follow up with your doctor, have them with you. That will make that visit more useful. And, they are great for a virtual visit, as they expand the ability of the doctor to assess just how you are doing. And, of course, a virtual visit keeps you from spreading it, and others from making you sick with other things.