Covid-19 Survivor Stories by Dr Aarushi Gupta

Dr Aarushi Gupta, a Niva Bupa customer since January 2020, shares her journey of defeating Coronavirus and resuming work thereafter to help her patients recover from this deadly disease. She believes that it’s the support for one another that is required of mankind and advocates the need to build one's immunity.

Here is what she has to say about her whole experience.

“I’m a radiologist. While I was on the COVID-19 duty, I started feeling feverish and tired.

Being well-aware of the symptoms of the Coronavirus, I immediately got myself tested.

I was COVID-positive.

Overwhelmed, I gathered the strength to disclose it to my parents. I was expecting them to be as anxious and worried as I was at the time. Fortunately, they were still very supportive, hopeful, and optimistic about the whole situation, since they are doctors themselves.

I was admitted to the hospital for further treatment.

I remember it being the toughest time of my life, where, besides dealing with the discomfort from fever and myalgia( pain in muscles), I was also impacted by isolation and the uncertainty of the entire situation.

I, however, tried to keep calm and maintain a positive attitude through it all.

A few days later, I was tested again. And what a pleasant surprise it was!

I tested negative!

After a few days of rest and home care, I returned to work, for which I am very thankful.

My only message to everyone is to be supportive of the people dealing with this rare virus, because even if you don’t get it, someone around you might suffer from it.  Also, work on building your strength and immunity; it is incredibly vital for your well-being. And last but not least, get your health insurance!

I chose Niva Bupa as my health insurance partner, and I can gladly say that I made the right choice. They ensured a smooth and hassle-free experience at the time of my hospitalisation. Their team was proactive and followed up well.

Invest in yourself and your health at the right time!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the common symptoms of COVID-19, and when should one seek medical help?

   Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, dry cough, muscle pain (myalgia), and shortness of breath, often appearing 2-14 days after exposure. Seek immediate medical help if experiencing severe difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, or confusion, as these indicate potential complications requiring hospitalisation.​

2. How can individuals build immunity to better cope with COVID-19?

   Building immunity involves maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins (e.g., C and D), regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management, alongside vaccination and hygiene practices like handwashing. Support from family and a positive mindset, as in Dr Gupta's experience, also aids emotional resilience during recovery.​

3. What role does health insurance play in managing COVID-19 treatment and recovery?

   Health insurance like Niva Bupa's provides cashless hospitalisation, coverage for tests, and follow-up care, reducing financial stress during pandemics. It ensures proactive support from claim teams, allowing focus on recovery without hassle, as highlighted in survivor stories.​

4. How long does it typically take to recover from COVID-19, and what if symptoms persist?

   Most people recover within 2-4 weeks with mild cases, but full well-being may take up to 9 months for some, especially those with mental health impacts like anxiety. Persistent symptoms (long COVID) warrant follow-up with specialists for tailored care, including monitoring for PTSD or fatigue.