The hospitals across the nation are getting filled with patients who tested positive for COVID-19. The infectious disease, which started spreading around the world earlier this year, has claimed more than 200,000 lives in the United States.
However, those who caught the virus will not be the only victims of the pandemic. Many people may defer going to the hospital for treatment of other illnesses in fear that they may get COVID-19, too. As a result, patients are not getting the medical attention that they need.
There will be many illnesses that should have been caught and then treated in their early stages but will grow worse unless the patient sees a doctor. As much as possible, the public should contact a medical professional no matter how minor or non-urgent an ailment may be.
More importantly, those who need to go through these medical procedures and treatment should not cancel or delay a visit to the clinic.
Why You Need to See Your Dentist
For a healthier mouth and teeth, you should see your dentist twice a year for both routine procedures and in case you have tooth or gum problems. However, many have been discouraged to go out, let alone go to a dentist’s clinic where people have to remove their masks and have their mouth wide open the whole time.
The World Health Organization advises the public to postpone non-essential oral health procedures until the transmission has slowed down. This includes cleaning and general check-up. The American Dental Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that dentists should weigh the risk and decide whether a patient complaint requires a closer look.
While there have been medical professionals who are open to consultations online, there are some ailments that cannot be assessed thoroughly through the often blurry camera of a smartphone or laptop. Teeth, in particular, presents a special challenge. Often, the dentist needs to look at teeth using a high-quality LED dental light, something that no regular person owns at home.
So, while patients can postpone an annual checkup, those who are already experiencing symptoms of teeth and gum problems may want to schedule an appointment at a clinic. This will prevent the condition from worsening.
Why You Should Go Through a Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is an important procedure. The goal of doing it regularly is to catch colorectal cancer, which is common among the aging population, at its earliest stage. This type of cancer is deadly, but the survival rate is high if it is treated before it progresses and spreads. Getting a colonoscopy at least once every 10 years or once every five years after you turned 60 will ensure that you are safe from colorectal cancer.
Doctors are urging patients not to delay preventative screenings, especially if it involves deadly illnesses like cancer. In this case, the risk of developing a more serious health concern far outweighs the threat of COVID-19.
All hospitals are also taking precautions against the virus. They are limiting the number of people within the building, they check the temperature of everyone who wants to go in, and masks are mandatory.
Physical Therapy
Injuries require hands-on treatment, something that a person would not be able to get via telemedicine consultations. Even a sprained ankle may get worse if not treated properly.
Those who had a broken bone, maybe due to working out at home, or have gone through a knee cap replacement surgery should seek professional help. Most injuries have better outcomes if they get urgent medical attention.
Some physical therapists are also offering telemedicine consultations to some patients, but those who need to be present at a clinic or a hospital should still go. Remember to follow health and safety protocols, including social distancing and wearing a face mask.
Treatment for Heart Disease
Your heart problems do not go away because of the pandemic, so why should you delay care? Whether you have been experiencing symptoms for months or symptoms appeared out of nowhere, you should seek advice from a doctor.
Any signs of cardiovascular problems should be addressed immediately. When it comes to the heart, every minute of inaction can lead to death. A blockage in the veins preventing the flow of blood to the heart requires immediate medical attention because it may result in permanent damages. It would also be fatal.
Symptoms, no matter how insignificant it may seem, should be checked by a doctor. Using a telemedicine platform can help a medical professional determine whether the ailment requires a closer assessment or can be treated at home with the right prescription medicine.
COVID-19 is a serious illness and can kill even those who are in their youth and have no comorbidity. However, its existence does not mean other illnesses go away for a while. If you feel any symptom, it is better to consult with a doctor rather than wait for it to become life-threatening.
