COVID-19 Symptom Checker

Common Symptoms of COVID-19

COVID-19 symptoms can vary widely, from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

• Fever and chills: A body temperature higher than 100.4°F (38°C). Fever often comes with chills, sweating, and body aches.
• Cough: Typically dry and persistent, but can occasionally produce mucus.
• Fatigue: Unexplained exhaustion even after rest. 
• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity.
• Loss of taste or smell: A sudden loss of taste or smell, even without a runny nose. This symptom is more common in COVID-19 than in other infections.
• Sore throat and headache: Mild throat discomfort and persistent headaches.
• Muscle aches: Body pain or stiffness, similar to flu symptoms.

Symptoms often appear 2–14 days after exposure. Severe cases may include confusion, chest pain, and bluish lips. Monitor symptoms closely and seek immediate care for worsening conditions.

How COVID-19 is Diagnosed?

Diagnosing COVID-19 typically involves a combination of symptom review, exposure history, and diagnostic tests. Here’s what to expect:

• PCR Tests: These tests detect the virus’s genetic material using a nasal swab or saliva sample. They are highly accurate but may take longer to process.
• Rapid Antigen Tests: These tests identify viral proteins and provide quick results. They work best when symptoms are present but may miss early or asymptomatic cases.
• Blood Tests: Antibody tests check for past infection, not active cases. They help determine if someone had COVID-19 before but are not used for diagnosis.
• Chest Imaging: In severe cases, X-rays or CT scans can help doctors see how much the lungs are affected.

Additional Testing Considerations

Home testing kits offer a convenient way to check for COVID-19, but it is important to confirm positive results with a PCR test for accuracy. False negatives can occur if testing is done too early, as the virus may not yet be detectable. If symptoms persist despite a negative result, retesting is recommended.

Retesting after recovery can sometimes show a positive result for weeks, but this does not necessarily mean a person is still contagious.

Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice on testing and follow-up care. Early detection can help prevent severe complications and reduce the spread of the virus.