Is this coronavirus and if it is, does it matter?

[StealthBoaster]

I came down with something a couple of days ago. It started as difficulty swallowing and a headache but has morphed into a sore throat, cough and aches. I have had no fever (at least not according to my thermometer). I have not knowingly been in contact with anyone affected or who has been in an affected area. I am concerned that my chest has hurt throughout this period and I am exceptionally tired. Obviously I am self-isolating (don't want to go anywhere anyway!) and I know that I won't be tested but does this sound like coronavirus and, if so, is there anything else I should do?

The CMO are working on the basis it is far more prevalent in community. A lot of people will have had it and just thought they had a virus/cold etc. Nothing to do but self isolate take paracetamol as needed. If you deteriorate (particularly difficultly with breathing) call 111. Hope you feel better soon.

Self isolate for seven days from the start of symptoms and if you are improving (not even recovered) you’re allowed back out.
If you’re not improving after 7 days, 111 for advice. If you deteriorate, 111.

I’m in the same position. Suspect our symptoms are coronavirus (me and 2 children) but managing at home and self isolating from today. No idea how we’ve caught it as am pretty self isolated anyway (self employed don’t commute don’t really go out of the village no cases at kids’ school). Won’t get tested so won’t know for sure. Will probably let my GP know once better.

Thanks all. The cough has got steadily worse and I'm knackered. I am a bit worried about the pain in my chest though. I've never experienced anything like it before. It's not stopping my breathing, it's just uncomfortable but it makes me nervous. I'm also about to lose my voice I think.

I'm also not sure how to properly self-isolate in our house as there's three of us, one loo and everything is pretty open plan. I won't go anywhere obviously but in terms of protecting my family, I think that horse has bolted. :-(

I'm also worried OP, my chest feels really tight and I've got a dry cough coming on. DF is very unsympathetic though so making me feel like I'm imagining it 😞

Hello - I know that there's many people with bigger problems but I wanted to see what others would do. The cough has got much much worse and the chest pain remains. It's been a week- at what point do I call 111? Is there any point?

You ring them if you can’t manage your symptoms at home. If you are coping but in pain I would just keep going with fluids and paracetamol. Hope you feel better soon.

Thank you. That's sensible. Having a middle of the night panic!