Health experts warn against self-medication for common symptoms

Delhi: Health experts warned against the use of self-medication without seeking doctor's consultation as it can have adverse effects on the overall well-being of the individual. A rise in the use of medication before diagnoses has been observed amidst a surge in COVID cases, which doctors say can do more harm to the lungs and lead to severe respiratory tract infections.

The most recently detected Omicron variant has displayed mild symptoms in majority of the cases which includes cough, fever, cold, nasal congestion and throat irritation. These symptoms are common with cold and influenza, which makes it essential to get tested on detection of any of these symptoms to ensure timely medication and treatment reaches the patient.

Speaking about the common symptoms observed during the third wave, Dr. Sanjiv Dang, ENT specialist, Apollo Spectra Hospital, said, “Coronavirus has an adverse effect on the lungs, and leads to difficulty in breathing. However, in the third wave, most of the patients are showing symptoms like cold, fever, sore throat, headache, and vomiting, and the report is coming positive after the COVID test. Many people also suffer from cold, cough, sore throat, and fever due to weather change that invites cold and flu."

Doctors have extended advice to take precautions and maintain the health of the respiratory system as it forms the focal point attacked by all COVID variants. As common symptoms can be displayed due to the mild nature of Omicron, it is advisable to seek medical help before consumption of any medicinal drug to prevent the disease from worsening further.

Highlighting the negative impact that self-medication can have, Dr Dang added, "A majority of people do not get themselves tested because of the fear of getting diagnosed with COVID infection and opt for home remedies or self-medicate with the help of google. Taking any medication without the doctor’s knowledge can be risky and invite unwanted complications like throat infections. The nose, throat, and larynx are part of the external respiratory tract, with the internal respiratory tract extending from the trachea to the lungs. Your respiratory system is very delicate. Throat infections can have serious consequences if they spread to the lungs. Therefore, it is important to take special care of the respiratory system during the third wave of COVID.”

Purposive testing strategy issued by the Health Ministry also suggests getting tested on detection of any of the given symptoms to ensure right treatment can be provided according to the protocol if the sample returns positive