TESTING FOR COVID: a warning

[CarmenfromParis]

Just wanted to tell you about my experience of being tested for COVID 19.

Because I had symptoms (in fact it's just bronchitis), I went to have the dreaded test. I had not reckoned that shoving that swab up my nose would mean having a real hemorrhage, I had totally forgotten to tell the nurse that I had very low platelets so after we both cleaned up the bed, floor etc, I thought I would warn you all to make sure you can head home to fling your post-Dracula clothes straight into the washer if you undergo the test! Heaven help us if they start enforcing those tests at airports or in cars...So be prepared

[Newdawn Administrator]

I think it’s a very good point because although I have a very good pain threshold, I found the test pretty intrusive. My nasal passage and throat did hurt the next day but fortunately didn’t bleed. It must have given you both a right fright!

Glad it was negative...mine too! 😊

Newdawn

[JigFettler Volunteer]

That's a horrible experience.

My wife had a drive through Covid test last Sunday. UK. She said it was fine. No pain... it was negative. Sore throat and fever. Fully recovered now.

She was asked if she wanted to do her own nose swab! Declined!

I am not happy hearing how some tests are so painful.

Jig

[cllady01 Former Volunteer]

Carmen, I have wondered about that in our situation. I have a very sensitive nasal passage that bleeds quite readily, though my platelets are at an acceptable level. (I think my situation is a thinning of the mucus membrane as happens to our skin all over our bodies. Thank you for sharing that experience.

[country76]

I haven't had the Covid test however I did have the flu swab which is the same procedure. I found it painful and was hoping they would come up with another route of testing for Covid.

[mja511]

My Covid test required sputum, so all I had to do was spit in a collection cup. That was easy and non-evasive and had results 45 minutes later. If this becomes a regular test, I hope it can remain this easy.

[Hidden]

How awful!!! Thanks for the warning. I'll definitely keep that in mind.

[olyocl]

You certainly had a BAD experience, because I have been in hospital several times since April I have had 7 COVID tests I felt most of them were uncomfortable.

Hope you won’t need any more done.