Ahmedabad: Between the second and third wave covid, how does the patient profile change when viewed from the perspective of radiologist? Answering this question, city experts say that lung involvement is relatively low in the latest waves.
Dr.
Amit Gupta, a radiologist, said that up to about 10 days ago, Covid patients did not have to undergo high resolution computed tomography (HRCT).
“However, we now see around 5-10 patients in various laboratories.
In the second wave, we will see glass-glass opacity and very high lung involvement.
In comparison, we currently see mucus plugs in bronchiolus – small air bags that branch out of the tracheae to the lungs.
Secretion can also be seen in some cases, “he said.
What will be the implication for patients? Dr.
Gupta said that because of the nature of the current infection, dry cough and clogged nose are some signs.
However, people generally recover in 3-5 days.
Dr.
Sahil Shah, Radiologist and Secretary with AMA, said that oxygen levels did not fall due to the involvement of only the upper respiratory tract.
“We will advise residents not in a hurry for X-ray or HRCT in each case.
Imaging is only needed if the patient has trouble breathing.
The node was seen in the lungs last year was also absent, “he said.
Experts say that the nature changes from viral infections behind the fact that currently relatively very few patients need oxygen in the treatment protocol while in April-May last year around 80-85% is needed oxygen therapy.