Why are wait times so long?
With respiratory viruses spreading in our communities, area urgent care clinics and hospitals are overwhelmed. This means even more people are turning to our online clinic for care.
We’re working hard to diagnose and treat a large number people. And we want to make sure we’re taking the extra time and attention needed to provide safe and effective care. This means wait times may be longer or access to care paused temporarily.
We apologize for these delays and disruptions. Please know we’re taking steps to address these challenges and we know it’s difficult to wait for care when you’re not feeling well. We are grateful you chose Virtuwell and thank you for your patience and understanding.
Thankfully, there are things you can do while you wait at home to reduce viral respiratory symptoms and feel better, faster.
Have you tested for COVID-19?
If you’re experiencing viral respiratory symptoms, it’s important to test for COVID-19. Home COVID tests are a reliable way to understand the possible cause of your symptoms and help ensure you get the best treatment possible.
At-home relief for common symptoms
- Fever, headache & body aches – Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help relieve pain and reduce fevers. Make sure to follow label dosing instructions and take medication with food or milk to avoid an upset stomach.
- Sore throat – Try over-the-counter throat lozenges or antiseptic sprays to soothe throat pain. Gargling warm water with a pinch of salt can also provide relief.
- Sinus congestion – Take an expectorant where guaifenesin is the only active ingredient to thin mucus and use an over-the-counter nasal steroid or decongestant spray for a runny nose.
- Cough – Eat a teaspoon of honey (for ages 1 and older) to soothe an irritating cough and, if your cough keeps you up at night, take a cough suppressant that contains dextromethorphan.
In addition to managing symptoms, it’s important to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated while your body heals. Most respiratory viruses will resolve on their own within 7 to 10 days.
** If you’re experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe pain or are unable to eat or drink, visit an urgent care or emergency room near you.
Want more advice on ways to feel better from home? From pink eye and sinus infections to UTIs and coughs, visit our blog for more information and helpful tips.