Fever, shortness of breath, nausea, headache, and body aches is what it feels like to have coronavirus COVID-19. Four Americans retell their experiences of living through the Coronavirus COVID-19. They had symptoms including shortness of breath, fever, cough, and muscle aches. This article also addresses mild, moderate, and severe cases of COVID-19 and what it feels like.

COVID-19 symptoms greatly resemble those of a common cold or influenza, leading to challenges when trying to identify if you have the disease and necessitating treatment. The most prevalent symptoms of coronavirus include shortness of breath, dry cough, fever, and headache. If you suspect you may have been exposed or if you are exhibiting symptoms, make it a priority to undergo testing and initiate quarantine protocols immediately.

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Understanding the Experience of Having COVID-19

Fears and anxieties abound as one navigates through the symptoms of COVID-19 and the continuously evolving Delta and Omicron variants. Although individuals over the age of 60 remain significantly more susceptible to the virus, the majority of younger people experience mild and non-life-threatening symptoms such as coughs or sneezes.

Experience insights from four COVID-19 survivors give us the tools to better predict and manage potential symptoms like coughing or difficulty breathing, discern when to seek medical help, and prepare for life post-contracting the virus.

A Surprising Battle - Lisa Merck

On March 13, 2020, Lisa Merck, 50, disclosed from her self-imposed quarantine in Crested Butte, Colorado. Recently back from a three-week Hawaii trip, Lisa came home with more than pleasant memories as she began to experience severe muscle aches. These discomforts were followed by nausea, fever, shortness of breath, and fatigue, leading to a positive coronavirus diagnosis. From her encounter, muscle aches were the most intense, but the breathlessness and fatigue posed significant challenges too.

COVID-19 Unveiled - Hillary Dianne

Hillary Diane was discharged from the ER on March 11 after her suspected coronavirus experience garnered attention on Facebook. Living in Massachusetts, in close proximity to the Biogen conference site where over 70 people were infected, Hillary had no direct contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case. Despite a restricted testing capacity at the MA Department of Public Health, the hospital, which could not provide tests, sent her home to self-quarantine.

Her symptoms unfolded as follows:

March 9: a slight tickle in the throat, initially dismissed as insignificant.
March 10: cough and shortness of breath surfaced, intensifying during the day. Body aches and general discomfort began, sleep became elusive due to constant coughing.
March 11: Unchanged symptoms. Despite not having a fever, she was informed that fever absence doesn't negate COVID-19 as it manifests differently in individuals, depending on age, general health, and pre-existing conditions.

She emphasizes how it disrupted both her personal and professional lives, expressing concern for vulnerable populations that may encounter the virus.

Overcoming the Hurdles - Elizabeth Schneider

37-year-old Elizabeth Schneider from Seattle, first noticed symptoms on February 25, post-attending a party where the virus was present. Initial symptoms mimicked a severe cold paired with fatigue, headache, body aches, and then an escalated body temperature of 103 degrees.

Admitting herself into the Seattle Flu Study research program, Elizabeth sent her nasal swab for testing and waited. On March 7, she received a positive COVID-19 result. Instead of shock, she felt relief because of her scientific interest and assured herself with over-the-counter flu medication and rest.

An Unexpected Birthday Surprise - Carl Goldman

Carl Goldman, a 67-year-old former passenger on the infamous Diamond Princess cruise ship, awoke from a nap on his flight back to the U.S. with a 103-degree fever. Along with over 700 other people on the ship, Carl had contracted COVID-19 and was admitted to a biocontainment center in Omaha, Nebraska, where he celebrated a memorable 67th birthday.

Surviving COVID-19 Post-Vaccination

Health & Science News Editor at NPR, Will Stone, recounts his taxing experience with a breakthrough COVID-19 infection post-vaccination:

"My experience with breakthrough COVID-19 was grueling. I endured body aches, a fever of 103, and nights of sweaty discomfort. Even with these symptoms subsiding post-fever, I felt weak for the next few weeks.

Thankfully, my immune system wasn't unprepared, unlike the millions who faced the virus pre-vaccine availability. As informed by Francesca Torriani, an infectious disease physician at the University of California, San Diego, my infection could have been remarkably worse without my vaccination, especially considering the Delta variant.

About a month into my recovery, I'm grateful for my full recovery and the vaccine's protective benefits."

While contracting COVID-19 post-vaccination may yield similar symptoms as unvaccinated individuals, the severity and duration of these symptoms are considerably reduced due to the protection offered by the vaccine.

Identifying Symptoms of COVID-19

Sypmtoms of a COVID-19 infection range widely from mild to severe, and they appear differently in individuals. Upon exposure, symptoms become noticeable between 2-14 days, often mistaken initially for a common cold.

Upon recognizing any of the following symptoms, it's crucial to get tested immediately to avoid further transmission, even if you remain asymptomatic but have had exposure. Make sure to quarantine yourself to ensure safety.

Mild Symptoms

The CDC lists the following symptoms suggestive of COVID-19:

Cough
Congestion or runny nose
Diarrhea
Fatigue
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches and pains
Nausea/vomiting
Loss of taste/smell
Shortness of breath
Sore throat

Moderate Symptoms

Progression of COVID-19 infection may cause:

Increasingly persistent cough
Fever higher than 100.4°F
Transient shortness of breath even with mild activities like climbing stairs
Extended time in bed

Immediately consult your doctor if these symptoms persist to avoid secondary complications like pneumonia.

Severe Symptoms

Emergency warning signs of COVID-19 necessitate immediate medical intervention (call 911 or visit the emergency room). These symptoms include:

Difficulty staying awake
New confusion
Pale/gray/blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds
Persistent chest pain
Difficulty breathing

Delta and Omicron Variant Symptoms

The Delta and Omicron variant symptoms largely mimic the original COVID-19 ones. However, the Delta variant seems to make people sicker faster, particularly among younger individuals, due to its high replication rate in the respiratory tract. Most of those affected by either variant are either asymptomatic or experience mild symptoms akin to the common cold.

Long-Term Effects of COVID-19

Even after recovery from active COVID-19 infection, enduring health effects — now known as post-COVID syndrome — can persist. This condition occurs irrespective of the initial COVID-19 severity.

Common long-term effects include respiratory problems; experts estimate that lung recovery after a coronavirus infection can take months. Severe cases may also cause lung tissue scarring. Additionally, reports indicate resultant heart problems, kidney damage, altered taste/smell, among other issues. The CDC suggests individuals may exhibit a combination of these symptoms and lists the following as possible:

Changes in menstrual cycle
Gastrointestinal issues
Orthostatic dizziness
Tachycardia
Cognitive impairment
Joint pain
Paresthesia
Rashes
Insomnia

Lengthy COVID-19 hospitalizations may induce post-intensive care syndrome (PCIS), characterized by extreme weakness, cognitive difficulties, and possibly PTSD.

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are answers to common queries regarding COVID-19, vaccination, and testing.

Where can I get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Thankfully, the COVID-19 vaccine is readily available and free of charge. Pfizer is available for individuals aged 5 and above, while Moderna and Johnson & Johnson are recommended for those over 18. To find a vaccination center near you, visit vaccines.gov.

How long do I have to quarantine for?

Following updated CDC guidelines, the quarantine duration has been reduced from 14 to 5 days in certain scenarios, contingent on remaining symptom-free.

Where can I get a COVID-19 test?

The Department of Health and Human Services offers a locator for testing sites. Additionally, Mira can assist you in scheduling a test, either at urgent care or a lab facility. Rapid tests are available but might incur an extra cost.

Should I get the vaccine if I've had COVID-19 before?

Absolutely. While having COVID-19 does generate antibodies, their protective capacity and duration aren't fully understood. It's recommended to get vaccinated once you're no longer contagious.

In Conclusion

Recognizing COVID-19 signs and responding promptly is crucial to preventing viral spread. If you suspect exposure or exhibit symptoms, ensure to get tested promptly. Vaccination remains the most effective approach to overcoming the ongoing pandemic. Remember, you can get vaccinated as soon as your quarantine ends and you're no longer contagious.

How Does It Feel To Have COVID-19?