Ask the Doctor: When to go to the doctor with possible COVID symptoms

This content was current as of the date it was released. In science and medicine, information is constantly changing and may become out-of-date as new data emerge.

Question

With my state being so very selective about who they will see and test, I am concerned that saying I have CLL (W & W) and asthma will not be enough to even get seen. I’m an hour and a half from my doctors so I am scared to wait until it’s hard to breathe as suggested by CDC.
Any guidance?

Answer

I suggest with your vulnerabilities of CLL, asthma and your long drive that you work out a plan in advance with your healthcare about how you should handle any symptoms suggestive of COVID-19. Ask your doctors if they would suggest that at the slightest first sign of any shortness of breath or chest tightness or needing more asthma meds, especially if associated with a fever, increased fatigue, muscle aches, cough or sore throat, you seek medical care. Ask if you just have flu like symptoms, but no shortness of breath, what would the recommend in your particular circumstance.

Generally C19 present like the flu and most get better around day 5-7, but some, especially high risk vulnerable patients such as yourself instead can quickly become short of breath after 5-10 days and can be headed to the ICU fast. Have a plan in place with your doctors to be ready to move. The flip side is that you want to avoid a hospital if you don’t need it.