Here is a list of medical myths and facts related to them: Is D Dimer the only lab criteria for severity? Fact: No. There are more criteria for severity. Like, Absolute lymphocytic count < 800. D Dimer > 100. CPK > 2X ULN. CPR > 100. LDH > 245. Trop I rising. Ferritin > 300.
Are the labs working without any standard guidelines? Fact: This is a myth. There are standard guidelines for daily tests and risk stratification. Daily tests: CBC with differential lymphocytes, CMP, CPK. Risk stratification Q2-3 DAY PRN (as needed): D Dimer, Feritn, ESR, CRP.
Do all pneumonia patients need admission? Fact: Not all the patients need to be admitted. Only if Temperature > 38. Respiratory rate > 20. Heart rate > 100 with new confusion. Oxygen saturation < 94%.
Is there no clear cut red flag for COVID? Fact: There are symptoms for COVID: • Severe shortness of breath at rest. • Difficulty in breathing. • Pain or pressure in the chest’. • Cold, clammy, pale and mottled skin. • New confusion. • Becoming difficult to rouse. • Blue lips or face. • Little or no urine output. • Coughing up blood. • Neck stiffness. • Non blanching rash.
Does headache rule out COVID 19? Fact: No, It is present in 14% cases.
Does fever with chills only indicates flu? Fact: Chills are present in 12% cases. So, it can be a symptom for COVID. Does cough with sputum rule out COVID 19? Fact: No, sputum may be present in 34% cases. So, sputum does not rule COVID out.
Is nasal congestion common in COVID? Fact: No, It is present in only 5% of cases. So, don’t wait for Nasal Congestion.
Can Hydroxychloroquine cause QT prolongation? Fact: No, it’s the combination with Azithromycin, leads QT prolongation.