The deadly Coronavirus can affect anyone! But the elderly people with other co morbidities at the greater risk of developing severe symptoms. If you have a long-term health condition then instead of feeling anxious you must consult your doctor immediately and strictly follow the guidelines suggested by your doctor.
Who is at risk?
People mostly recover from Coronavirus after maintaining proper self-quarantine and taking rest for few days. But, people with other pre-existing health conditions, it can be more severe and sometimes life-threatening. The senior-citizens, who are over 65-year-old, with underlying health conditions including chronic (long-term) respiratory diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema or bronchitis; chronic heart disease, such as heart failure; chronic kidney disease; chronic liver disease, such as hepatitis; chronic neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), a learning disability or cerebral palsy; diabetes; a weakened immune system as the result of conditions such as HIV and AIDS and those who are pregnant have the maximum chances of contracting the infection.
I have diabetes, what should I do?
If you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and having symptoms such as cough, high temperature and feeling short of breath, you need to monitor your blood sugar closely. Immediately self-quarantine yourself and continue taking your diabetes medication. Do not rush to a hospital, if you have a hospital appointment. Instead, opt for Tele-consultation or online consultation to speak with your doctor.
Just in case, if you don’t check your blood sugar levels at home, be aware of the signs of Hyperglycemia, which include being very thirsty, passing more urine than normal (especially at night), headaches, tiredness and lethargy. You should call your doctor if you have these symptoms.
Being an elderly should I self-isolate?
Everyone, regardless of age, should avoid non-essential contact with others to curb the spread of the virus and protect the most vulnerable. One should stop going to large gatherings. This is particularly important for people over 65-year-old and those with underlying health conditions because they are at higher risk of developing more severe symptoms if they become infected. That is why, it is suggested that people with elderly friends and relatives should make sure to check on them regularly. There are many toll-free helpline services which have started in many cities, senior citizens can avail any help be it getting daily essentials, medicines or even take their help to learn technology through these helplines.
I have asthma, what should I do?
One should be taking the preventer inhaler daily as prescribed. This will help cut your risk of an asthma attack being triggered by any respiratory virus, including Coronavirus. Carry your reliever inhaler with you every day, in case you feel your asthma symptoms flaring up. If your asthma is getting worse and there is a risk you might have the virus, contact your doctor immediately. Start a peak flow diary if you have a peak flow meter as it can be a good way of tracking your asthma and helping you learn the difference between your asthma symptoms and coronavirus illness.