DH just tested positive but we have 3 DCs who are clinically extremely vulnerable.

[Dogatetheleftovers]

DH just received email informing him that he’s had a positive test. Not surprising really when lots of colleagues have it. But he’s tried to be really vigilant, wearing kn95 masks, hand washing etc because of our kids. Now that he’s tested positive, coughing, tight chest, fatigued, we’re left wondering what to do. The DCs are teenagers so old enough to understand the risks and to know that they’ve all had shielding letters. I’ve had one as well. I’m terrified now and I know we’ve got to wait 14 days to see if one of us has it too. Already one dc has temperature and headache! Anyone offer any kind words of support or advice, it would be most welcome.

@dinglethedragon oops! Thank you! I didn’t actually know that or I don’t think I thought about it enough! It was very reassuring to get a test when I shouldn’t really have so worth the 20 seconds a day to input my info.
Still thinking of you all @Dogatetheleftovers

your combination of symptoms does suggest that you've had this longer than you thought. Presumably your husband's symptoms also started on at least Friday if not sooner - so in a few days hopefully he will be a bit more use to you as you dont mention him doing much now.

Stop feeling like you have to take the whole load and get everyone involved in doing a little. It helps no-one if you make yourself more ill by not resting.

My symptoms were the same as your earlier ones so I certainly think that’s when it started.

Please rest as much as possible. Get your dc to lie down with you and breathe deeply for a few mins. I hope your dh is a bit more up and about soon- you may have to have words that you have supported everyone while he rested and a good marriage would have a little support back, even if he doesn’t feel ready have you felt up to the past week? Hang in there for another few days op, hope the stats stay up and everyone can stay home.

Stay home as in hope everyone stays well enough to not need any extra help, not as in I think you are all roaming town spreading virus!

I had the pain in my back too op, and was under ‘observation’ by the oncall via telephone but never needed to go in. I want to reassure you that it can be ok. It has taken a while to get back to full health but I’m there now. Hang on there op. Put your feet up and rest.

How are you doing @Dogatetheleftovers ? I think of you and your family often. How is everyone doing?

Woke up with a high temperature again this morning and have pain in upper back. DH awake and up so I’m going to ask him to help a bit with the DCs. My dd who is autistic is really stressed by the whole situation, having to stay home, not feeling well herself and then worrying about me. It’s a perfect storm for her, I think.
Ihatecoronavirus How long were you ill for? I’m glad you’re feeling much better.
Orchidflower1 Thank you for your kind thoughts, it means so much.

I hope he does help you. He sounds a bit useless TBH and needs to step up a bit.

I’ve just phoned 111 for advice and waiting for a callback from a nurse. My temperature is 38.5 and oxygen sats between 94-97, although it went lower before I called them to 92. So I followed gps advice yesterday to seek advice. I’m wondering if the pulse oximeter reads lower if your hands are icy cold. With the high temperature I’ve only just got my hands to warm up. I’m so scared, no one knows I’ve phoned as I don’t want to panic my kids.

You have done the right thing, hopefully you’ll hear back soon x

I’m just so frightened. I don’t want to get worse. My kids need me to be here for them. They have so many challenges in life already.

Cold hands can affect your oxygen sats especially on those home oximeters but you’re doing the right thing in seeking medical advice. You probably need to be checked over. Don’t panic, they may be able to prescribe something to make you feel better.

I can understand you being frightened, I would be too . I don’t know if it would be possible to have a small oxygen tank at home if that’s what you need xx

Oh I hope you’re one of the lucky ones and not too badly affected, both for your sake and that of your DC. As a lone parent of DC with disabilities myself, I can truly empathise with just how much you have on your plate.

Please, if you can, keep posting if it helps your anxiety, but obviously please take care of your and your family’s needs first. There is a mountain of people wishing you all well

You've done the right thing calling 111. I didn't when I was concerned as I didn't want to scare my husband and kids and on reflection I should have done. They'd be a lot worse off if I'd deteriorated and not done so. Luckily I was ok but I've heard stories of people who bitterly regret not calling. Hopefully it will put your mind at rest or you will be checked over. Either way it's better than feeling extremely unwell and not doing so. Hope you feel better soon. They anxiety can be as bad as the symptoms.

Sending lots of love and positive thoughts.

The home oximeters aren't very reliable, you've done the right thing calling.

Doctor from 111 wants me to be assessed in either a and e or walk in centre. I’m just waiting for a call to tell me where I need to go.

@Ithinkim

The home oximeters aren't very reliable, you've done the right thing calling.

Agree with this. Mine gave a different recording for every finger

I hope you get some treatment, also hope your children don’t panic, could you say you’re going to the shop ? Xx

Keeping you and family in my prayers

Wishing you all the best at your check up. Hope your DH and children start to feel better soon.

You’ve done the right thing calling them. Hopefully you can get checked out and get home again and that will be reassuring for all of you.

Thinking of you op. You are doing the right thing to stay well for your kids. I work in the hospital and they will most definitely not admit you unkess needed.