Polaris Parkway Internal Medicine & Pediatrics

Bradley A. Lisko, MD

Phillip N. Simon, MD

Lauren McClain,  MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Working hand-in-hand to meet your healthcare needs

We strive to provide the best care to patients of all ages using evidence-based medicine, technology and compassion

Copyright 2020 Polaris Parkway Internal Medicine and Pediatrics

During the winter months it can be difficult to know if your symptoms are caused by a cold, influenza, allergies or COVID-19.  This graphic can be a quick reference to help you determine what may be causing your symptoms.

If you have or think you have COVID-19, this link will give you advice on things you can do at home to help you recover more quickly, and things to keep those caring for you safe.

To learn more about managing common cold symptoms, click this link.  For information on treating cold symptoms in children, click here.

On average it takes 5-6 days from the time when someone is infected with COVID-19 for symptoms to appear. It can take up to 14 days after being infected before symptoms appear.

When did the symptoms start?

• 1-2 days = patient should treat symptoms with OTC medications and monitor.  Assume you may have COVID and isolate at home.
  

• 3-5 days = get tested for Covid.  Testing earlier may give false negative results.  Testing after 7 days of symptoms with a home test/antigen test may be less reliable.
  

• 6 days + = consider calling the office to see if you need an appointment, especially if your symptoms seem to be worsening instead of improving.