There is a lack of awareness among people regarding CT scan. As a result there are a lot of Covid positive people as well as those who are experiencing symptoms of Covid-19 but not tested positive who are going for CT scans. Dr Arvind Kumar, Chairman, Institute of Chest Surgery Medanta - The Medicity, Gurgaon tells us that with respect of Covid-19, CT scans can be viewed in two ways:
First Week Of Covid Infection
You may have fever, but there is less possibility of Covid infection reaching your lungs. There are more chances of your lungs getting affected in 8-14 days of infection. If we look at it this way, we do not need CT scan in the first week of Covid infection.
According to Radiologist Dr A Kapoor, if a Covid positive person is in isolation and regularly monitoring oxygen level (5-6 times) through Oximeter and if the oxygen level is coming up to 94, there is absolutely no need to worry.
How To Know If Your Lungs Are Infected Or You Need A CT Scan
Dr Arvind Kumar says that to increase the capacity and strength of lungs, one must do two activities and it will also make sure that you would not need medical oxygen at a later stage.
Activity 1: Sit on a chair and keep your palms on your thighs. Take a deep breath and hold. If you are breathless, then also you should try to hold it for a few more seconds. After that, release the breath through your nose.
This activity should be done every hour for two times at least. If you are able to hold your breath for 20-25 seconds, then your lungs are healthy.
Activity 2: For this you would need your Oximeter. First of all measure your oxygen level on the device and then start walking at a normal speed. Walk for 6 minutes without stopping. Check your oxygen levels once again after the walk. If your oxygen level is same before taking the walk then your lungs are healthy and you don't need to worry. If your oxygen level comes 3-4 points less, then you must consult your doctor and choose to go for CT scan if advised.
Why CT Scan Is Not Advised Till Absolutely Necessary
When you get CT scan done, you expose yourself to radiations. You are also putting burden on hospital staff and infrastructure. Also you are increasing risk of infection by venturing out in this pandemic.
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