Covid-19 has taken so much from Malaysians – many lives, experiences, and liberties – despite there being silver linings such as the boom in delivery services and time spent together during lockdown.
Darren (not his real name) is sharing his story of having contracted the disease, in the hope that people will find some value from his experience.
His first symptoms were a mild sore throat, back pain, body pain, joint pain, fatigue and feeling feverish. Having had a sore throat for at least three days, he consulted his doctor, who advised him to isolate as these were classic Covid symptoms.
A RT-PCR test confirmed he was positive. Darren updated his status accordingly on MySejahtera and duly complied with their requirements. The next morning, he continued to feel feverish and slept through the day and night, only waking up to eat and take medicine.
He continued with his daily dose of vitamin C and D supplements, and measured his oxygen saturation levels with an oximeter several times a day, which were, fortunately, between 96% and 98%.
His temperature was up to 100.5°F until day nine, with frequent bouts of coughing, chills and sweating, which suggested his body was fighting the virus.
On day 11, Darren ran tests to check for antibodies, immunity, inflammation, secondary infection and organ damage. His results were all normal, although he still felt tired and had a cough.
He recovered fully on day 14.
While his experience did not require hospitalisation, it was still scary. He did undergo loss of smell and taste, but continued to nourish and hydrate himself regardless of whether he was hungry or thirsty.
He spent his time watching movies and reading books, while avoiding mindless television series and staying off social media as he felt negative news would not help his situation. His constant companion throughout the ordeal was his dog, Ginger.
Here’s what Darren has learnt from his experience:
- Don’t panic if you develop flu-like symptoms – start self-isolation right away, even without a positive result, as the first five days are crucial.
- Connecting with your doctor or pharmacist using a healthcare mobile app will take a lot of the stress away.
- Getting meals delivered is the most convenient way to keep nourished.
- Your immune system will normally fight the virus in a week, so ensure your meals are healthy, balanced and nutritious.
- Monitor your temperature and oxygen saturation several times a day to ensure levels don’t drop below 95%.
- Keep in touch virtually with close friends and family and let them be a source of strength.
- Do yoga and breathing exercises as much as you can.
- Don’t read or watch Covid-related messages or WhatsApp videos from well-meaning people who know you are positive, as some of these could trigger unnecessary stress. Do, however, refer to credible sources online, and get accurate advice from medical professionals.
- Don’t take the situation too lightly, and don’t be in denial and wait for more severe symptoms – you could inadvertently spread the virus to others in the meantime.
- Keep to a daily routine – take a shower, wear fresh clothes, read, solve puzzles, play, meditate, pray, do yoga, play with your pets, listen to music, and watch movies. Basically do anything that makes you feel good.
Click here to download a free Covid handbook by TELEME.
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TELEME Healing Life Stories is a collection of inspirational stories of how ordinary people triumph over their health conditions and recover to lead a healthier life. Email [email protected] to share your story.