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.

Hi OP, hope you are all hanging in there ok. Keep remembering by far more people are OK. Age is a major factor and that is on your side, especially your kids. Thinking of you all

Hope you were all able to rest last night. How are the one who were poorly first doing?

Hi Op - thinking of you how are you all doing ?

Now everyone has it. Not surprising really. But my DS (21) is so unwell, very high temperature and I’m trying to implement his emergency protocol whilst feeling so rough myself. I am still struggling with very high anxiety and panicking, I just can’t help it. I don’t know what my girls will do if I were admitted. I’m monitoring my o2 levels periodically and it’s been between 90-95. Certainly higher after my asthma inhaler but then it falls again to around this level. I’m so scared, my kids are my life and I can’t cope with this.

How is DH and what is he doing?

DH is in bed. He said he didn’t get to sleep until 6.30 am so he’s staying in bed for a while.

Maybe take it in shifts? You can’t do it all, if you’re both ill it needs to be shared unless one of you is iller than the other.

Is there anyone that has had it that can come and help you ? I know you can catch it twice but if they can get hold of a decent mask , wear gloves etc.
I feel so sorry for you all , so wish someone could help xx

@Fembot123

Maybe take it in shifts? You can’t do it all, if you’re both ill it needs to be shared unless one of you is iller than the other.

I think this is a splendid plan. Could you work it almost as if the children are new borns and take it in turns to nap/ go to bed. You both need sleep. 💐

Thinking of you all.

Yes try and take it in shifts. You can’t possibly do it all while ill yourself. My heart goes out to you op, so much stress which can’t be helping. I wish this bloody virus weren’t so contagious so people could come in and help, but you do need help. Could friends drop meals off so cooking is off the list? Even just a daily soup and juice...

Is your husband helping you? You really can't do this all alone.

Sending love to you all 💖

Have you called the duty social care number? They are there to support you all in situations like this. Please try to make contact. They are the other half of the NHS in a way and are there to help you!

Did anyone else have huge anxiety when ill with Covid? Probably a silly question as it would be impossible not to be stressed but I just wondered how you coped?

Good advice here, do you have family and friends who can drop around sandwiches or a big meal like a lasagne for you all? There’s no way I could face worrying about food on top of all this, you need to put out a plea.
I would say anxiety is completely normal here. When you’re spiralling maybe you could get on to calm or headspace and just try some relaxation?? Also do you have a gadget to measure oxygen levels? This would give you reassurance that all is ok, well not ok but in theory ok.
You need to take some time to rest too so once your husband has had some sleep he needs to take over for a few hours so you can rest.
This is awful but already you are a couple of days in, hopefully you can see that that’s a couple days nearer to the end of all this. Big bloody hug.

Thank you Janus

Hi OP,
I'm sorry that this will not be what you want to hear, but sats dropping to 90 isn't normal, and I would recommend you at least talk to 111.
All the best, and hope you are all feeling better soon.
(A&E doctor)

When was the last time anyone medical had any contact with you in real life? It’s really hard to judge how sick you are yourself. I know - I had sepsis once and didn’t even want to go to get checked (luckily someone else realised how bad it was and overruled me and got me lifesaving treatment)

Sats dropping to 90 needs at the very least a real life conversation with a doctor. I know it’s scary, but make sure you are accessing the help you need

OP. I have children with disabilities and my biggest fear is all of us being unwell at the same time and me being too unwell to look after them so I know you must be scared right now. But you really should at least speak to 111 and get some advice

I hope you’re day hasn’t been too awful and you are feeling a bit better. I second pp who say it wouldn’t hurt to let your gp know what’s happening especially about oxygen levels xx

Please contact a medical professional OP. Your O2 level is not normal.

Yes massive anxiety when we had covid, we were all okay in the end. Which I am certain you will be too. Definitely call 111 about the sats xx

OP not to worry you but the reason so many people are ending up seriously ill is because they don't feel ill enough to seek medical attention/go to hospital but their oxygen levels are dropping too low and by the time they seek medical attention it's too late. If you haven't already please call 111

Hope you have now sought medical attention. Sats under 95% suggest you should

www.lmc.org.uk/visageimages/Covid-19/Guide%20to%20using%20pulse%20oximeters%20during%20Covid-19%20pandemic.pdf