Did you know you can test at home? With NHS coronavirus testing kits, it’s possible to do the test at home and get the results within half an hour for the rapid test. Let’s learn a bit more about the home COVID-19 test and how to use it.



Two Types of Tests: Which Should You Use?

There are two main types of coronavirus tests that are used in the UK. These may be administered by a health worker or you may use the home test kit.

 

PCR: This test is recommended for anyone who is experiencing symptoms, including:


-      Loss of taste or smell

-      High temperature

-      Persistent cough


The test takes longer to do and is considered more accurate. You can do this test and then send it in to a lab, which will test your sample and give you the results.

 

Rapid lateral flow test: This type of test is similar to a pregnancy test in the way it works, but it provides faster results than the PCR test. You should consider taking this test if you don’t have symptoms but feel you may have been exposed. It can be taken twice a week to ensure you’re not infected.


How to Use the PCR Home Test

You can pick up your test at a test site or you can have it sent to your home. Either option works well.

 

Step 1: Clean your hands thoroughly.

Step 2: Open the test and set out all the items on a clean surface.

Step 3: Blow your nose and wash your hands.

Step 4: Use the swab to carefully rub where your tonsils are or would be. You should not touch the swab to your tongue, teeth, or gums.

Step 5: Using the same swab, insert it in your nose about 2.5 cm and swirl it lightly around the nostril.

Step 6: Drop the swab side of the stick down in the tube and close it tightly.

Step 7: Place the tube in the provided bag.

Step 8: Return the test to the test site worker or post it in a Royal Mail priority post-box. It cannot be sent via a non-priority post-box or the Post Office.

Step 9: Wait for your results.


How to Use the Rapid Lateral Flow Home Test

The most common type of home COVID-19 test is the rapid lateral flow home test. It doesn’t require sending the sample to a lab and the results are available in 15-30 minutes, depending on the test.

There are two versions of these tests. One requires a throat and nose swab and the other is only for a nose swab. Be sure to check the instructions to determine which type of test you have.


Step 1: Wash your hands thoroughly.

Step 2: Take everything out of the kit and place it on a clean surface.

Step 3: Put the tube in the tube holder. If it’s not pre-filled, fill it with the provided liquid and close the lid.

Step 4: Blow your nose and wash your hands.

Step 5: If you have a nasal only test, skip to the next step. Use the swab to rub your tonsils or where they should be. Do not touch the swab to your gums, teeth, or tongue.

Step 6: Use the same swab and insert it into your nose about 2.5 cm and swirl it around.

Step 7: Put the swab end of the stick into the tube and let it soak up the liquid.

Step 8: Squeeze out the test tube liquid onto the test strip.

Step 9: Wait the amount of time listed in the instructions and check the test. You should see one or two lines.

 

●     A negative result will show a single coloured line beside the C and there will be no line beside the T.

●     A positive result will show two coloured lines, one beside the C and one beside the T. Even if the T line is very light, this is still a positive result.

●     If you see no lines or only a line where the T is and no C line, the result is void and cannot be used.

 

Step 10: Record your test results online with the QR code or the ID number.

You can take this test more frequently since it is a rapid test. It’s recommended that you take it every three or four days to ensure you catch any infection early on.


When Should You Take a Home Test?

You can take a home test whenever you suspect you may have been exposed to coronavirus. It’s worth the peace of mind to take a rapid test. You should also take a test if:

 

●     You have symptoms. This is especially important if you have lost your sense of taste or smell, noticed changes with your senses, have a high temperature, or have developed a persistent cough.

 

●     You know you’ve been exposed to someone positive. When someone you have been in contact with tests positive, you will need to get tested, as well. You may need to test more than once and should also take precautions not to infect others while you are waiting for results.

 

●     It’s required for work. Some workplaces require regular testing to ensure their employees and customers are as safe as possible. You’ll also need to take other precautions to prevent infection. Wearing a mask and frequent handwashing, combined with social distancing will help keep everyone safe in the workplace.

 

●     You plan to attend an event. Any type of event is likely to require a negative test, including holiday parties, concerts, and other such occasions. Any time you will be in close proximity with a group of people, you may need proof of a negative test. You may wish to test a few times in the weeks following the event.

 

●     You will be travelling. Travel is not recommended for most of the world, but if you do travel, you’ll likely need proof that you are not Covid-19 positive. This means taking a test before you leave. You’ll likely need to take one upon your return, as well.

If you are told to present a negative test result for any occasion, you should take a test. You may also wish to test yourself twice a week to ensure you know if you are positive very quickly. Anyone in a high-risk occupation will want to do this.


What to Do If You Test Positive

It can be scary to see a positive test result, but if you do get a positive, don’t panic. First, you’ll need to stay away from other people and self-isolate. This means you should not have contact with anyone outside the home and it’s best to stay away from those in the home, as well, until they have been tested.

 

You’ll need to self-isolate for up to two weeks, or until you test negative, but your doctor can advise you on this. Speaking to a doctor is the next step in staying safe. Once you’ve received a positive result, you should contact your doctor and get their Covid-19 advice. It’s essential that you follow your doctor’s advice and report any symptoms you may develop. If you’re prescribed medicine, then you should make sure you take it as ordered.


Where to Find More Covid-19 Advice

If you need to know more about coronavirus and NHS coronavirus testing, NHS online offers plenty of information to keep you up to date. You’ll also find clinical services offered online so you can consult with a doctor and get personalised attention.

 

The doctor will evaluate your results and ensure you have the necessary treatment. They will also advise you if you need to visit the hospital for more intensive care. To schedule NHS online clinical services, you can visit our page. 

How to Tell if You Have Diabetes

by Jahan Mahmoodi • 28 September 2022
Diabetes isn’t an uncommon illness, but it can be serious and result in your having to change your lifestyle. There are two different kinds of diabetes, and the main difference between them is that type 1 is genetic, whereas type 2 diabetes can be down to your lifestyle and will develop over time, rather than showing up in an earlier stage of your life. It is important to know what the symptoms of diabetes are so that you can address the problem sooner rather than later, so below are some of the key things to look out for and when you should see a doctor. What are the Symptoms? If you want to know how to tell if you have diabetes, these are common indicators that you might have developed this problem. The need to urinate frequently, or feeling thirsty and/or hungry a lot. You might also notice that you experience extreme fatigue, weight loss, tingling sensation, or pain in your hands and feet. Cuts and bruises might also take longer to heal than they have done in the past. Some people might also experience blurred vision or find that they are getting thrush in the genital area repeatedly. You may want to refer to a self help service to check symptoms if you are concerned. What Should You Do? If you are concerned that you have diabetes, the first thing to do is make an appointment with your doctor. They can arrange a blood test to check your blood sugar levels, as this can be a great indicator of whether or not you have diabetes and can be one of the first warning signs. High blood sugar can be treated with lifestyle changes, and you may need to take insulin at times too. Your doctor can talk you through how to manage your diabetes more effectively, or look at NHS GP for more information. They may even refer you to specialist centers for disease control for further support and guidance. Who is at a Higher Risk? If you do have a history of type 1 diabetes in your family, then you are more likely to develop this condition, too. However, for type 2 diabetes, those at a higher risk include people who have a diet that is high in fats and sugars and are overweight. Your risk also increases the older you get, with a lot of people developing this when they are over 40. This is why it is important to monitor high levels of blood sugar and get this tested if you are concerned. Lifestyle Changes for Diabetics If you do have type 2 diabetes, there are some things you can do at home to help this. The first step is to look at moving to a healthier lifestyle and eating a more balanced diet with reduced sugar. Remember to be careful with carbs, too, as these can turn into sugar in your body. You might also want to think about getting more exercise to help you lose weight which can be beneficial.  If you are worried about whether or not you have developed diabetes, contact your doctor as soon as possible to take the necessary tests.

What Are the Symptoms of PTSD?

by Jahan Mahmoodi • 25 August 2022
What is PTSD? Learn about the symptoms of PTSD and what to do if you think you or a loved one has this psychiatric disorder. PTSD, which stands for post-traumatic stress disorder, is a psychiatric disorder that occurs after a traumatic event or prolonged trauma over time. Historically, it became known as “shell shock”, which many soldiers experienced after combat in the world wars. However, any kind of trauma can lead to this disorder, such as: Accidents Assault Abuse Illness or injury (either yourself or a loved one) The death of a loved one Going through these experiences does not being you will definitely experience PTSD. A traumatic event or prolonged trauma might trigger the disorder in one person and not another, and it has not been determined exactly why. One suggestion is that those suffering from PTSD have high-stress hormone levels, though this isn’t always the case. If you think you or a loved one might have PTSD, it’s crucial to understand the symptoms and seek medical help to process the memories and reduce symptoms over time. Below are the most common symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder PTSD. Flashbacks of Trauma After experiencing a traumatic event, many people feel sad, scared, and anxious, and these symptoms tend to improve naturally over a few weeks. In people with PTSD, these symptoms last far longer and can produce one of the most common symptoms associated with post traumatic stress disorder: flashbacks. Flashbacks make a person with PTSD experience the traumatic event over and over again in their mind. Often, the flashback is very vivid and causes high levels of panic and anxiety, and can even become debilitating in severe cases. Frequent Nightmares People with PTSD usually experience frequent nightmares, often of the traumatic event or events that they have been through. These nightmares cause elevated stress levels and can lead to further issues, like sleeping difficulties and insomnia. Extreme Anxiety Anxiety is a symptom of multiple mental health issues, including PTSD. After experiencing trauma, a person with PTSD will often feel extreme anxiety in their day-to-day life. They Avoidance It is common for people living with PTSD to avoid anything associated with the traumatic event they experienced, which often includes people, places or activities. It is common for sufferers to even withdraw from their friends and family. Over time, this can make their symptoms even worse as they continue to isolate themselves. Intrusive Thoughts Intrusive thoughts involve upsetting and confusing thoughts that those with PTSD wish would disappear. Typically, these thoughts lead to feelings of guilt and upset. Without treatment, these intrusive thoughts are difficult to manage and might worsen over time in some cases. Irritability or Anger Many people with PTSD become irritable or angry, which can lead to reckless behaviour. This behaviour might cause them to damage their relationships. Extreme anger may also be a sign of complex PTSD, which is caused by long-term trauma rather than a single event. PTSD in Children Children can get PTSD just like adults. The symptoms may look different, though. If you suspect your child has PTSD, here are the signs to look out for: Reliving the traumatic event Angry outbursts Nightmares Fear and/or sadness Seek Help for PTSD When experiencing symptoms like this, it’s important to see mental health specialists in order to determine the cause. Then, these mental health professionals can provide appropriate treatment to help the patient manage and improve their symptoms over time, whether through therapy or medication, or a combination of both. If you think you or your loved one is experiencing PTSD, book an appointment with your NHS GP as soon as possible. Help is available, and nobody has to carry on suffering with their symptoms.

How to Improve Student Mental Health

by Jahan Mahmoodi • 18 August 2022
Student life can be rough. If you feel as though your mental health is beginning to suffer as a result, here are some tips that may be able to help.