The worldwide pandemic may be over, but the virus that caused it has never gone away. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2 and spreads more easily than the flu.
If you’ve tested positive for COVID or are experiencing signs of it, understanding when symptoms require medical care—and when they can be managed at home—helps protect your health and reduce the spread of illness to others. At Core Medicine of Idaho Urgent Care and Family Practice in Caldwell, we provide practical evaluation, COVID testing, symptom support, and treatment guidance to help you through this now-common infection.
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What Are the Typical COVID Symptoms?
The virus affects people in different ways—some feel like they have a mild cold, while others experience more intense fatigue, fever, or respiratory issues. Knowing which symptoms to expect—and how they may change over time—can help you make informed decisions about when to rest at home and when to seek medical care. Common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough and congestion
- Fatigue or muscle aches
- Sore throat
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Shortness of breath
Most people with COVID experience these symptoms at a mild-to-moderate level that can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and over‑the‑counter supportive care. However, even mild symptoms can worsen, especially in people who are older or have underlying health issues like diabetes, lung disease, heart disease, or a weakened immune system. Early outpatient treatment in higher‑risk cases may reduce the chance of severe complications.
When Should You See a Doctor for COVID?
Not all COVID‑19 cases require urgent medical intervention, but, as with a severe cold or flu, certain symptoms or changes in condition should prompt evaluation. You should consult Core Medicine of Idaho if you experience any of the following signs of worsening illness:
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- New confusion or inability to stay awake
- Bluish lips or face
More importantly, if a fever is high (above 103 °F) or doesn’t respond to typical fever reducers, medical assessment may be needed. Persistent or worsening symptoms beyond a few days deserve professional evaluation. Our health care professionals assess whether further testing, supportive care, or intervention is needed.
What COVID Symptoms Treatment Can We Provide?
At Core Medicine of Idaho Urgent Care and Family Practice, we treat COVID‑19 and related symptoms with a focus on practical care and real‑world support. Our team is experienced in evaluating patients with suspected or confirmed COVID and offers a range of treatment services.
Rapid and PCR Testing
Whether you think you have COVID or need confirmation of an exposure, we offer both rapid antigen tests and more accurate PCR testing to help guide your next steps. Knowing your status early can help with treatment decisions and reduce transmission to others.
Symptom Assessment and Monitoring
Not all symptoms require emergency care. Our clinicians determine whether yours are mild, moderate, or severe and advise you on the best course of action. We explain warning signs to watch for, how to safely monitor your condition at home, and when to seek return evaluation.
Supportive Treatment
For non-high-risk patients with mild to moderate COVID symptoms, we might suggest supportive care measures such as fever management, hydration guidance, and rest. In some cases, antiviral medications authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and recommended by the Infectious Diseases Society of America may be prescribed if you’re eligible—especially if treatment can help prevent progression to severe disease.
Coordination With Your Care
Because we provide both urgent care and family medicine, we can help integrate COVID care into your overall health plan. We believe people with chronic conditions benefit from continuity of care and personalized treatment recommendations.
What Can You Do at Home For Mild COVID Symptoms?
Simple actions ease discomfort, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others. Following a few key self-care steps makes a meaningful difference in how you feel day to day:
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Take fever‑reducing medications when appropriate.
- Isolate from others to limit the spread.
- Monitor your symptoms closely.
If you’re unsure about your symptom severity or have risk factors for complications, contacting us sooner rather than later makes all the difference. We accept walk-in patients much more quickly—and at a lower cost—than an emergency room, without compromising the quality of care you deserve.