A Sharp Rise In The Number Of People Opting For Home Tests Amid Lockdown: Says Doctor
Covid lockdown has induced many serious health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, joint, and muscles pain, digestive and heart issues, respiratory conditions, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). To minimize the risk of Covid infection, people are avoiding venturing out of the house and at-home tests have been in demand since lockdown. Even those having Covid and other pre-existing conditions feel safe to take tests at home.
Everything has come to a standstill during the Covid pandemic. The elderly population and others with comorbidities have been asked to stay safe at home as they fall into the high-risk category of contracting Coronavirus. Moreover, those with comorbidities are avoiding stepping out of the house and opting for at-home services. Nowadays, there is a steep rise in the number of people who prefer to get themselves check at home. In a way, it is the best option to curb the spread of the virus.
Dr Sanjay Ingle Zonal Technical Head West and Consultant Pathologist, Apollo Diagnostics Pune, “Diabetes, cholesterol, heart and lung problems, urine infections, digestive and joint problems, obesity cases and mental health issues are on the rise during the lockdown. Existing or newly diagnosed patients with multiple comorbidities should keep a track of their health during the pandemic. Those with existing ailments or newly diagnosed patients have a higher risk of catching allergies and infection including Coronavirus. It is essential for such people to take regular tests after every 3 months to check their health status. Even those who showcase covid-like symptoms need to do home testing. Various tests like fasting blood sugar test, check weight, uric acids levels, hemogram, kidney, liver function test, lipid profile, urine routine and culture, sonography for fatty liver, obesity are opted by people. There is an almost 50% jump in patients opting for home collection of samples. Common tests prescribed are lipid profile, LFT, KFT, Vitamins and minerals estimation to regulate immunity levls.
We at Apollo Diagnostics ensure that Phlebotomists going for home collection are well trained and maintain hygiene nd aseptic precautions for patients and self-safety. There has been a rise in no of home collections and also awareness for calling trained staff so as to ensure that in these pandemic times the patients are not affected by COVID due to persons coming at home.
“It is the need of the hour for everyone to take charge of their health. Eat a well-balanced diet loaded with fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, pulses, whole grains, and beans. Do not smoke or consume alcohol as it can worsen your health. Stay mobile and exercise on a daily basis. Take the medication prescribed by the doctor only. Do not hesitate to seek prompt treatment, if your health gets deteriorated further,” concluded Dr Sanjay Ingle Zonal Technical Head West and Consultant Pathologist, Apollo Diagnostics, Pune.*
