What happens if COVID-19 is not treated?

COVID-19 can cause fever, tiredness, headache, cough, muscle aches, runny nose, or changes in smell and taste. Many mild infections improve with rest, fluids, and time. In other cases, inflammation can affect the lungs and make breathing harder. The risk of severe illness is greater for some older adults and people with certain long-term health conditions. A person can worsen after initially mild symptoms, so changes in breathing, alertness, or ability to drink deserve attention.

Rest, drink regularly, and follow local advice about reducing close contact while unwell. Check your symptoms through the day, especially your breathing and fluid intake. Contact a clinician promptly if you are at higher risk of severe illness, because some treatments work best when started early. Do not start antibiotics or someone else’s medicine for a viral infection.

Seek urgent medical help for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, new confusion, inability to stay awake, chest pain, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange medical advice if fever persists, symptoms are clearly worsening, or you are passing much less urine than usual.

Ask whether your symptoms need assessment, whether you qualify for early treatment, and how to monitor breathing at home. You can also ask when it is safe to resume normal activities.