Do I Have Coronavirus? COVID-19 Testing Maryland

With a pandemic sweeping the country, any unusual symptom may have you asking, “Do I have coronavirus?” Here’s what you need to know about COVID-19 Testing in Maryland.

Who Should Be Tested for the Coronavirus Disease?

If you’re feeling unwell, it’s best to schedule a telemedicine appointment with your doctor so that he or she can evaluate your symptoms.

Telemedicine appointments allow doctors to determine whether testing is needed while keeping healthcare workers and other patients safe.

Importantly, you will need a referral from a healthcare provider in order to make an appointment for covid-19 testing in Maryland.

If you have trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion or the inability to respond, or bluish lips and face, please seek emergency medical treatment.

What Are the Symptoms of COVID-19?

While the list of symptoms is expanding, these remain the most common symptoms among those who test positive:

• Fever

• Cough

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Chills

• Repeated shaking with chills

• Muscle pain

• Headache

• Sore throat

• New loss of taste or smell

Other, less common symptoms include aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually.

Still others will become infected but don't develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell.

How Is Coronavirus Testing Performed?

Typically, tests are conducted at drive-up facilities. Once the appropriate information has been gathered, a healthcare professional will insert a 6-inch swab into your nostril and rotate it several times.

The swabbing may be repeated on the other side to ensure that enough material has been collected. The swab will be sent to a lab for testing.

You should expect your results in several days.

Who Should Be Tested for COVID-19 in Maryland?

For those with a mild illness that does not need medical care, a test may not be necessary. In this case, you should remain at home and self-isolate, including from other members of your household.

The CDC recommends following these guidelines to protect others.

Your doctor may determine that having COVID-19 testing is in your best interest. This is why a virtual appointment is important.

COVID-19 Testing in Maryland: Do I Have Coronavirus?

If you or a loved one are concerned that you may have contracted the coronavirus, please call our office at (301) 262-8188 to schedule a telemedicine appointment.

Please call 911 for emergencies or seek care from the nearest emergency room.