COVID-19 Testing Clinic Q&A

If you have COVID-19 symptoms, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, it’s important to isolate yourself to prevent spreading the virus to others. Stay at home and avoid contact with other people, including household members, as much as possible. Monitor your symptoms and rest to help your body recover.
You should contact a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and determine if you need testing or further care. If symptoms worsen or you have difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. In some cases, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms or advise a COVID-19 test.

COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system, including the lungs. The virus enters the body through the nose or mouth and infects the cells lining the respiratory tract. This can lead to symptoms like cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. In severe cases, it can cause pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and damage to the lungs, which may require mechanical ventilation. The lungs are, therefore, the most significantly impacted organs during infection.

In addition to the lungs, COVID-19 can also affect the heart, kidneys, and nervous system. The virus may cause inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), leading to heart complications, including arrhythmias. Kidney damage can occur, especially in severe cases, leading to acute kidney injury. Furthermore, COVID-19 can cause neurological issues such as headaches, dizziness, loss of taste or smell, and, in some cases, long-term cognitive effects known as “brain fog.” Although the virus primarily targets the respiratory system, its widespread impact on multiple organs highlights its potential to cause systemic damage.

Call Express Health to book your COVID-19 test today. It’s that easy! Or, to make matters even more convenient, you can book an appointment online or visit our urgent care clinic now!

During a COVID-19 test, a healthcare professional will first explain the testing procedure and ensure you understand the steps. The most common test is the nasal swab test, where a healthcare worker uses a long, flexible swab to collect a sample from the inside of your nostrils. The swab is gently inserted into each nostril and rotated to gather the sample. This process usually lasts only a few seconds but may cause mild discomfort, such as a tickling sensation or slight pressure. Another option is the saliva test, where you are asked to spit into a collection tube. This method is more comfortable for many people as it is non-invasive and does not require inserting anything into your nose or throat.

Once the sample is collected, it is sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory tests the sample to detect the presence of the virus. The turnaround time for results can vary depending on the testing location and method used. Some places offer rapid tests that provide results in as little as 15 minutes, while others might take longer, usually within a few days. After receiving your results, your healthcare provider will guide you on the appropriate next steps, including whether you need to quarantine or seek medical treatment.

If you or someone you know requires a COVID-19 test, come to Express Health today! Our professional and caring staff runs a clean and safe facility, so you know you are in good hands. To speak with one of our specialists, contact us or visit us today to book an appointment. We have convenient locations in East Harlem, NY, Metropolitan, NY, and Staten Island, NY. We serve patients from East Harlem, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Staten Island, Rossville, Tottenville, the Metropolitan New York City area, and surrounding neighborhoods in NY.