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COVID-19 services offered in Johnson City, TN
COVID-19, or SARS-CoV-2, is a highly contagious disease that presents potentially severe risks to the elderly and people with underlying health problems. At Appalachian Family Care in Johnson City, Tennessee, William Clever, FNP, provides both testing and treatment for people with COVID-19. If you’re experiencing COVID-related symptoms like shortness of breath or a dry cough, book an in-person or telehealth appointment with the online scheduling tool or call the office today.
COVID-19 Q & A
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is an upper respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a group of viruses responsible for illnesses like the common cold, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
COVID-19 is very contagious and spreads quickly. If you’ve been exposed to someone sick with COVID, it’s important to get tested and receive treatment immediately. The sooner you take action, the better you can protect your friends, family, and community.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Common symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Tiredness
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle aches
- Chills
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Headache
You might also experience gastrointestinal problems like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or a loss of taste and smell.
What treatments are available for COVID-19?
Treatment of COVID-19 typically involves rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking over-the-counter medication. There are also several treatments available to ease your symptoms and prevent hospitalization. The FDA has authorized several antiviral therapies that target specific parts of the virus to stop it from multiplying in the body, helping to prevent severe illness and death.
The team may recommend convalescent plasma treatment for patients who are immunocompromised or receive immunosuppressive treatment. Your provider will walk you through this treatment if you are eligible.
There are several preventive options that you can discuss with your Appalachian Family Care provider to minimize the likelihood of severe COVID-19 symptoms. These measures can include EVUSHELD™ or a vaccine.
If you experience any life-threatening symptoms, like trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or difficulty staying awake, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.
Is there any way to prevent COVID-19?
There’s no way to prevent COVID-19 entirely, but there are things you can do to lower your risk significantly. Appalachian Family Care recommends:
- Avoiding close contact with others
- Washing your hands
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
- Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces
- Wearing a cloth face-covering in public
If you experience any symptoms of COVID-19, stay home from work, school, and other public areas.
How is COVID-19 diagnosed?
At Appalachian Family Care, the team provides follow-up appointments and evaluations for people concerned about their health before or after a COVID-19 diagnosis.
To diagnose COVID-19, your provider conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms, including when they first started, how severe they are, and if you’ve been around anyone who has received a COVID-19 diagnosis.
Afterward, they conduct an antigen (rapid) test or a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which involves taking a sample from your nose or throat using a cotton swab. The sample will then be analyzed for the presence of viral proteins.
If you’re concerned about your risk of COVID-19, request a consultation at Appalachian Family Care. Book an appointment with the online scheduling tool or call the office today.