If you (or a loved one) has a cough, you might be worried, as coughing is a hallmark symptom of COVID-19. But there are many different types of coughs. And of course, developing a cough doesn’t mean you have COVID-19.

Coughing has a purpose. It’s a reflex that helps protect your body by clearing germs, toxins and mucus from your lungs and trachea. However, a cough that lasts longer than eight weeks is considered persistent; if you have a persistent cough, you should contact your doctor because chronic coughs may be a sign of an underlying health issue.  

In this simplest terms, COVID-19 is respiratory tract infection. It can affect sinuses, nose, throat, trachea and lungs. About 80 percent of cases are mild, producing symptoms similar to the flu such as fever, fatigue, aches/pains, cough, sore throat, runny nose and congestion. With rest and some over-the-counter medications to help control symptoms, most people recover from a mild case COVID-19 within two weeks.

During the coronavirus shutdown, you might not be able to go to the gym or to your pool or to your yoga class, but that doesn’t mean you can’t work out. Exercise virtually. 

Many fitness professionals are helping Americans begin workouts, as well as continue staying active through the help of mobile apps, cable television, interactive platforms, streaming services and virtual fitness events. Here are just a few ideas to help you keep moving.

The COVID-19 coronavirus is disrupting almost every aspect of our lives. A level of uncertainty and isolation has become prevalent with social distancing and quarantine measures, which can greatly impact our mental health. This is why it is essential to take care of yourself not only physically, but also mentally during this pandemic.

I'm encouraging my patients and friends to stay positive by participating in activities that boost their mood and keep their minds engaged more than ever. Here are three activities I recommend incorporating into your new routine.

What Are COVID Toes? 4/20

Some potential symptoms of COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, aren't what you would expect. A loss of smell or taste, for example. But now dermatologists say that some patients are presenting with purple lesions on their toes or hands, a condition commonly referred to as pernio -- and COVID-19 is probably behind it.

Here's a synopsis from TODAY.

Like a lot of Americans, you’re probably sheltering-in-place and you may be stuck doing it for a while. As we all try to flatten the coronavirus curve, you may be wondering how you’re going to manage being cooped up with your spouse, parents, children or roommates 24/7 -- even if they’re your favorite people. 

Some people are naturally prone to anxiety; others are naturally prone to depression. This is a trying time for my patients on both ends of the spectrum. But make no mistake: COVID-19 can take an emotional toll on anyone, even the most even-keeled. After all, we do not yet have a cure for this potentially serious disease, and the social restrictions designed to protect our health can also make life more difficult. 
 
Here are some of the ways I’ve helped reassure many of my concerned patients. I hope this advice can also help others care for their emotional health.

Everybody everywhere seems to have a friend, spouse or colleague who claims to know “the truth” about COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. But right now there are probably just two truths you can count on. First: Information is quickly evolving. Second: You’ll find a lot of misinformation about the virus on social media.

Here at MDVIP, we’ve combed through the most reliable sources of coronavirus information to help debunk five common myths. 

The number of coronavirus cases in the U.S. are in the tens of thousands and rising — at this point, all 50 states have reported cases.

It’s been a difficult month for patients and physicians alike. As a doctor, a mom and a daughter, I’ve been worried about a lot of different people. My 85-year-old mother, for example, lives in New York, about 1,300 miles from us. At first, I was worried about whether I should fly up to see her or fly her down to stay with us. I’m worried about her because she’s in the most at-risk group for complications from coronavirus. And if she stays home she will be by herself for weeks. Thankfully, my brother (and his family) lives nearby and can keep track.