A VIRAL RESPIRATORY ILLNESS WITH GLOBAL IMPACT
COVID-19
A viral illness causing fever, cough, breathlessness, fatigue, loss of smell and risk of severe lung disease in some patients. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is COVID-19
COVID-19 is a viral illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which emerged in 2019 and led to a global pandemic. The infection spreads mainly through respiratory droplets and close contact, and can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces. Symptoms range from mild flu-like illness with fever, cough, body ache, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue and loss of taste or smell, to severe disease involving pneumonia, low oxygen levels and respiratory failure. Some patients, particularly the elderly, pregnant women, diabetics and those with chronic illnesses, are at higher risk of severe disease. Vaccination, supportive care, antiviral therapy in eligible patients and oxygen support for severe cases have significantly improved outcomes. Post-COVID symptoms can persist in some patients and need structured follow-up. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides complete COVID-19 evaluation, treatment and follow-up care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus
- Spread through respiratory droplets and aerosols
- Close contact with infected persons, especially indoors
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then the face
- Crowded, poorly ventilated environments
- Higher risk in elderly, pregnant women, diabetics and those with chronic illness
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
RT-PCR or rapid antigen testing; chest imaging in severe cases
Supportive care; antiviral therapy in eligible patients; oxygen and steroids for severe disease
Mild · Moderate · Severe with low oxygen · Critical illness
Most recover in 1–2 weeks; some have persistent post-COVID symptoms
Vaccination, masks in high-risk settings, ventilation and hand hygiene
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad — inpatient and ICU care
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Vaccination with Targeted Therapy for Severe Cases
The most effective approach combines vaccination as the cornerstone of prevention, with early evaluation, antiviral therapy in eligible patients, oxygen and steroid therapy for moderate to severe disease and structured post-COVID care for patients with persistent symptoms.
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Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, risk factors and oxygen levels, arranges testing and imaging where indicated and assesses severity.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan based on severity — home isolation with monitoring for mild cases, hospital admission for moderate to severe disease.
- 3
Medical Management
Supportive care, antiviral therapy in eligible patients, oxygen and steroid therapy for severe disease, and management of any complications.
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Recovery & Follow-up
Post-COVID follow-up to address persistent symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness or reduced exercise capacity, with structured rehabilitation if needed.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Supportive Care
Rest, hydration, fever control and symptom relief are sufficient for most mild cases.
Antiviral Therapy in Eligible Patients
Specific antiviral medication may be used in selected high-risk patients within the early days of symptoms to reduce severity.
Oxygen and Steroid Therapy for Severe Cases
Patients with low oxygen levels are treated with supplemental oxygen and steroid therapy, which have been shown to improve outcomes.
Vaccination for Prevention
COVID-19 vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe disease, hospitalisation and death, and is strongly recommended for adults and at-risk groups.
Post-COVID Follow-up
Patients with lingering symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness or palpitations are reviewed, evaluated and supported with a structured recovery plan.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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