How to manage your chronic conditions in the COVID-19 era
In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, what are the added risks to patients with pre-existing infectious diseases, such as TB, HIV/Aids, Diabetes, etc? What can be done to further protect themselves?
Individuals with underlying illnesses have an increased risk of developing severe COVID-19. So how can you protect yourself if you do have a chronic condition?
- Your illness should be well-controlled.
- Keep an adequate supply of your medication. Have medication delivered to your home or try to collect medication in bulk to avoid visiting the pharmacy or clinic frequently.
- Do not miss doctor’s appointments, rather ask your physician about telemedicine consults.
- Work from home if possible, otherwise, remember to maintain physical distance from others and practice frequent and thorough hand washing.
- Keep a glucose diary if you are diabetic (target glucose of 4-7 mmol/L before meals).
- Monitor your blood pressure (target blood pressure of < 130/80 mmHg).
- Eat healthily. Keep physically active.
- The influenza vaccine is recommended for those with chronic illnesses and the elderly.
- If your symptoms worsen suddenly, consult your doctor as COVID-19 may present in this manner.
The impact of COVID-19 on HIV infected individuals is still under investigation. Nevertheless, the general principle is to keep as healthy as possible. If you have been hesitant to initiate antiretroviral therapy (ART) you should reconsider. Be aware of your CD4 count (should be increasing annually) and HIV viral load (should be undetectable). If this is not the case or you are unsure of these results, see your doctor. If there has been an interruption in ART use, consult your doctor urgently.
Don’t be anxious, but be wise and exercise caution. Your doctors have been keeping themselves updated and informed and are ready to help.
