Health

Eat This, Not That!

There have been over 31 million cases of COVID-19 in the world, with almost 1 million deaths. Chances are, a lot of people we know have had the coronavirus infection. And many people we know are wondering if that flu-like symptom they had this year was actually COVID. But how can you tell? As a doctor, I know there are silent signs that indicate a person may have been infected with COVID-19. The bottom line is that only an antibody test can tell you for sure—or a COVID test if you're ill now—but since even those aren't 100%, read on for other clues. And to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus.1 You Got SickIf you were sick with a flu-like syndrome or had a strange diarrhea case or unexplained cough, you might have had COVID-19. Widespread testing isn't standard across counties, cities, and states, and many people have trouble getting testing access. 2 You Had a FeverIf you had a fever that could not be linked to other causes, it is possible that it could have been COVID-19. There are many reports that people with COVID experience fever. If you did not get tested for the flu or COVID, this could have been it. RELATED: COVID Mistakes You Should Never Make3 You Could Not Smell Things and Lost the Sense of TasteOver 60 percent of people with COVID-19 have said to have lost the smell or taste. And The CDC lists this loss of taste and smell as a possible COVID-19 symptom. This loss of smell appears more commonly with COVID-19 than other respiratory viruses, but keep in mind that other viruses can cause these same symptoms, like allergies. A COVID antibody test could be useful.4 Someone You Know Had COVIDIf someone in your house had COVID, you were likely exposed. If you met someone at a park or in an outdoor area, you could still have had contact the virus. It is important that if you were around people that had confirmed cases, to advise everyone you have in-person contact with that you have been exposed. RELATED: I'm an Infectious Disease Doctor and Would Never Touch This5 Your Kid Got SickChildren in general have been sick with COVID-19 less when compared to adults, but children can be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. And they can spread the virus that causes COVID-19 to people around them. Even if they do not show symptoms. The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention and hospitals are investigating a rare and serious medical condition associated with COVID-19 in children called Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). It isn't clear yet what triggers the MIS-C but if you have children that got sick during this pandemic, it is possible you were exposed to the novel coronavirus. 6 You Had a CoughIf you experienced a hacking cough for days that could not be explained by allergies, pollen or the wildfires, it could have been COVID. There is a lot of overlap with the common cold, the flu and the mild version of the coronavirus symptoms, and the flu test and COVID test both play an important role in case you have a cough.While we wait for the COVID vaccine, get a flu shot! Get it today! And keep yourself and others free from COVID-19, no matter where you live, wear a mask, avoid crowds, wash your hands and don't miss these 35 Places You're Most Likely to Catch COVID.