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COVID-19

A respiratory tract disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus that varies from mild to critical severity.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that primarily affects the respiratory system. The virus is transmitted from person to person mainly via droplets and aerosols.

The clinical picture has a wide range, from asymptomatic to mild upper respiratory tract infection, to severe pneumonia and multi-organ failure. Loss of smell and taste (anosmia/ageusia) is among the distinguishing symptoms specific to COVID-19.

Long COVID (post-COVID syndrome) covers fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive impairment that persist weeks to months after infection. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and long COVID.

Symptoms

Fever and chills
Cough (usually dry)
Shortness of breath
Loss of smell and taste
Fatigue and muscle pain
Headache and sore throat
Diarrhea and nausea (in some cases)

Risk Factors

Advanced age (65 and over)
Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity
Chronic lung disease
Immune system suppression
Being unvaccinated
Frequent exposure to closed and crowded environments
Smoking

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When shortness of breath, cyanosis of lips or face develops (EMERGENCY)
  • If there is persistent chest pain or pressure
  • In case of confusion or inability to wake up (EMERGENCY)
  • When oxygen saturation drops below 94%
  • When fever lasts longer than 3-5 days or symptoms worsen

Treatment Methods

01
Rest, plenty of fluids, and symptomatic treatment in mild cases
02
Antiviral drugs (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, remdesivir — in the risk group with physician decision)
03
Hospitalization, oxygen support, and corticosteroids in severe cases
04
Thrombosis prophylaxis (during inpatient treatment)
05
COVID-19 vaccination (mRNA, inactivated virus, or vector-based vaccines)
06
Multidisciplinary rehabilitation for long COVID symptoms

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Related Health Topics

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Flu (Influenza)

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Influenza is a seasonal contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses; it presents with high fever, muscle pain, and severe fatigue.

Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

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Upper respiratory tract infections are diseases that include common cold, pharyngitis, sinusitis, and laryngitis, often of viral origin and self-limited.

Urinary Tract Infection

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Urinary tract infections are common bacterial infections most often caused by Escherichia coli, presenting with burning and frequent urination.

Hepatitis A (HAV)

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Hepatitis A is an acute, self-limited liver infection transmitted via the fecal-oral route causing acute hepatitis without chronicity; supportive care suffices in most cases, while vaccination prevents outbreaks and post-exposure prophylaxis within 2 weeks is effective.

Hepatitis B

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Hepatitis B is a contagious infection caused by HBV virus transmitted via blood, sexual intercourse, and mother-to-child, that can become chronic and progress to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Hepatitis C

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Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by HCV virus transmitted mainly by blood; the rate of chronicity is high, but cure is possible with new antiviral drugs.

HIV/AIDS Information

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HIV is a virus that targets the immune system; if untreated, it progresses to AIDS. With modern antiretroviral therapy, HIV-positive individuals can lead healthy, long lives.

Brucellosis

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Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Brucella bacteria, transmitted via contact with contaminated animal products or infected animals; it is also seen in our country.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.