4 Concerns of High-Risk Patients, Answered

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way you live your life. You’ve been working from home, only leaving your house when necessary, and wearing a face covering when you do. These small steps go a long way when it comes to protecting yourself and your family from becoming ill. People who are at-risk for developing severe symptoms may find this even more anxiety inducing. Continue reading to learn the answers to common concerns of at-risk patients from your dentist in Love Field.

Who Is High-Risk?

Anyone can get COVID-19, but the following people are more prone to developing life threatening symptoms:

• Adults over the age of 65
• People who are living in nursing homes
• Patients who have heart disease
• People who have diabetes
• Obese patients
• Individuals with a weakened immune system
• Anyone with chronic liver or kidney disease

Should I Still Go to My Doctors’ Appointments If I’m High-Risk?

Non-essential appointments like check-ups can most likely be delayed until a later date. Certain issues can also be discussed through a virtual appointment. If you must see the doctor in person, call them ahead of time and ask about the steps they are taking to keep their office safe from COVID-19. You could also ask about hours reserved for at-risk patients.  Your doctor’s office will be able to give you the proper guidance regarding your situation and appointment so you can be as safe as possible.

How Should I Get Essential Items?

You should stay home as much as you can, especially if you’re high-risk. But there are a variety of essential items that you will need, like groceries, medication, and other supplies. You have several different options.

In order to get groceries, look for a contactless delivery option. You can have all of your groceries brought to you with an extra charge or through a delivery app. If you don’t have this option and must go inside, try to get enough groceries to last yourself a week or more. This means that you won’t have to go to the store again for a while and you’re ultimately reducing your outside exposure time. Also look out for high-risk customer hours.

If you need medication, see if your pharmacy can deliver directly to your house. If this isn’t an option, use the drive-thru instead of going inside.

What Can I Do to Stay Safe From COVID-19?

There are certain precautions that should be taken, especially if you are a high-risk patient. Here are a few of them:

• Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.
• Stay home as much as you’re able to.
• Practice social distancing.
• Wear a face covering.
• Avoid touching surfaces when you go to public places.
• Don’t touch your face.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.

Navigating through a pandemic can be stressful, but by following these steps and being cautious, you can help to make your community a safer place.

About the Practice

Bear Creek Family Dentistry has been serving patients in the DFW area for nearly three decades. Their team consists of general dentists paired with in-house, Board-Certified specialists in pediatric dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, and prosthodontics. This makes it easy to get whatever care you need in one convenient location. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (214) 350-5333.