COVID-19 is a serious illness that continues to impact the health and well-being of millions around the world. Fortunately, we have learned much about COVID and the steps we can take to help you avoid the health consequences associated with this global pandemic.
Dr. Benjamin Laracuente is a board-certified internist and pulmonologist who leads our team at Tristate Pulmonary Medical Practice in Monaca, Pennsylvania. Dr. Laracuente is well-known for his expertise in providing the residents of Beaver County and the greater Pittsburgh metropolitan region with excellent medical services in a patient-focused environment.
Our team is happy to provide information about what you can do to manage the risks of COVID-19 and to reassure you that supportive treatment is available.
COVID-19 is a virus that impacts the respiratory system. While the flu-like symptoms may be uncomfortable, most individuals who contract the virus do not become seriously ill. Many people, in fact, have no symptoms at all.
However, certain underlying health conditions can decrease your body’s ability to fend off the more serious effects of COVID-19. These conditions include:
If you have a history of any of these disorders, know that you’re at a higher risk of developing serious health complications when combating a viral illness such as the flu and COVID-19. Even the common cold can settle into your lungs and quickly worsen the effects of asthma or other ailments. But this is even more of a risk with COVID-19.
If you’re not sure of your risk factors or their potential role in your overall health, our team at Tristate Pulmonary Medical Practice can provide clear guidelines regarding your specific concerns.
There are several steps you can take to help limit your risk of exposure to COVID-19:
We recommend all our patients and community members follow local public health directives and CDC guidelines regarding social distancing, mask wearing, handwashing, etc.
We specialize in respiratory issues here at Tristate Pulmonary Medical Practice and always recommend the most effective treatment available for anyone with asthma, COPD, and allergies. It’s especially important now, though, as maximizing your treatment plan can help strengthen your body’s defense against COVID-19.
It may, in fact, be an excellent time to schedule an appointment with Dr. Laracuente if you’ve been putting off your follow-up care or have concerns about your current management.
Currently is a good time to make sure your flu and pneumonia vaccines are up to date. This season’s flu vaccine is already available. These immunizations won’t prevent COVID-19, but each can help protect your overall health and keep you from developing complications.
Don’t hesitate to call our office if you’re worried about possible exposure to someone with COVID-19 or develop a fever, cough, body aches, sore throat, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms of the virus. Our team will answer your questions and may, depending on your symptoms and health history, recommend you come in for a test.
The testing platform we use at Tristate Pulmonary Medical Practice (Vikor Scientific™ Respira-ID™) provides highly accurate results within 24 hours. That allows us, if necessary, to start therapeutic treatment as soon as possible.
For state-of-the-art testing and care regarding COVID-19 or any of your respiratory issues, schedule a visit at Tristate Pulmonary Medical Practice today. Call the office or request an appointment online.
