COVID is a complex virus that enters the body through the nasal cavity and throat (upper respiratory tract). For many people, the virus is contained to the upper respiratory tract, creating symptoms that include sneezing, nasal congestion, and a sore throat. However, COVID can spread into the lungs (lower respiratory tract), eventually developing into viral pneumonia. It can also affect your heart, kidneys, liver, and neurological system. Blood vessel damage, due in part to your immune system’s inflammatory response to the virus, can cause clots to form, leading to pulmonary embolism, stroke, and heart attack. Conditions that increase your risk of severe illness include:

Heart failure
Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
Excess weight
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Sickle cell disease (thalassemia)
Asthma
Pre-existing liver disease
Immunosuppressant medication taken after an organ transplant also increases your risk.

The CN Internal Medicine providers encourage people to schedule a visit anytime they’re concerned about their health. They’re happy to answer questions about COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. To help prevent community spread, they also offer virtual appointments for individuals experiencing COVID-linked symptoms, including:

Cough, sore throat, fever
Fatigue
Muscle aches
Loss of taste or smell
Moderate to severe headache
Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
Nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea
Notably, these symptoms are common to other viral illnesses. During a virtual visit, your CN Internal Medicine provider will recommend testing to confirm or rule out COVID-19. They offer rapid in-office testing and PCR testing by appointment. Based on your symptoms and health risks, your provider could suggest scheduling an in-office visit. Call CN Internal Medicine today or request a visit using their secure online service.