Shortness of breath is common, especially when you exercise regularly, but it can also be a severe health condition. In the recent past, people have been experiencing shortness of breath in Otsego due to COVID-19 complications. It makes people struggle to breathe because of insufficient airflow in the lungs.
If you experience trouble breathing and consistent tightness in your chest, ensure you seek medical help immediately. First, consider going for a COVID-19 test before you opt for other treatments. It could be an emergency, and getting tested earlier will help your doctor determine the appropriate treatment option before your condition worsens.
How does it feel to experience shortness of breath?
Shortness of breath makes you very uncomfortable when breathing. You struggle to breathe in and out because there is no airflow in your lungs, and it becomes challenging to breathe quickly. As the issue escalates, you will start drawing breath before you finish the last exhale.
You will also feel like breathing more quickly with a tight sensation in your chest since your body cannot get adequate oxygen supply. Sometimes the problem happens out of the blue and increases with time.
Shortness of Breath Due to COVID-19
Even though COVID-19 comes with different symptoms, the main one is shortness of breath. That is why it is crucial to determine the cause of breathing difficulties before visiting your doctor.
Luckily, there are multiple COVID-19 testing centers where you will know if you have contracted the virus. The testing needs specialized tools and equipment other than the regular breathing tests done in the hospital.
Remember, there are different causes of breathing difficulties, and you can only get the right treatment if you do the right test. It will be risky to seek treatment when you do not understand the cause of your breathing difficulties.
What happens during the COVID-19 test?
When you decide to go for the COVID-19 test, try as much as possible to avoid contact with other people. This is because the disease is contagious, and you do not want to infect others. Avoid using public transport and also ensure you maintain social distancing guidelines at all times.
Once you get to the testing center, a test specialist will give you a mask and ask you about how you feel and when you started experiencing shortness of breath. The specialist will ask you a few questions before you go to the test center. You will then sanitize your hands properly. Below is what happens next.
- The healthcare worker will record your details, including your name and phone number.
- Use a swab to take a sample in your nose and inside the back of your throat. It can be uncomfortable, but it will not take long.
- Take the sample to the lab for testing.
- Advise you when the results will be ready.
- You will then drive back home and ensure you continue self-isolating.
COVID-19 is a life-threatening condition that continues to claim people’s lives. Ensure you contact your healthcare specialist as soon as you experience difficulties in breathing. The earlier you go for the test, the better it is to prevent the condition from worsening.