What Are the Symptoms of COVID-19?

9. When to seek medical attention

Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms and start to improve within a week to ten days, but others may require medical attention. People over 50 or those who have compromised immune systems or underlying health issues should talk to their doctor as soon as symptoms appear. These conditions may make it more likely that they will experience severe symptoms or complications; starting medication early can help avoid this. Anyone who experiences trouble breathing, confusion, trouble waking up or staying awake, persistent chest pain, or pale or bluish skin, lips, or nail beds should seek emergency medical care.