Cough after recovering from COVID-19
Jan 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
"Yang Kang" generally refers to recovery after infection with the novel coronavirus. Coughing during the recovery phase is considered a normal part of the healing process, and patients usually do not need to worry excessively. Maintaining good lifestyle habits can help alleviate symptoms. However, if the cough is severe, patients are advised to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and take medication under the guidance of a doctor.
Recovery from Yang generally refers to recuperation after infection with the novel coronavirus. Coughing during recovery is usually part of the body's healing process, and patients typically do not need to worry excessively. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits can help alleviate symptoms. However, if coughing is severe, patients are advised to seek timely medical care and take medication under a doctor's guidance.
Coughing after recovering from a novel coronavirus infection is generally part of the body's recovery process. This is because the Omicron variant replicates extensively in the upper respiratory tract, damaging mucosal cells of the airways. Immune cells eliminate the virus and naturally metabolize dead cells. Since the airways cannot accommodate such large amounts of viruses and cellular debris, the respiratory system secretes mucus and expels these substances through coughing.
Coughing after a COVID-19 infection is a natural process of recovery and airway repair. Individuals who recover more slowly need not be overly concerned; based on clinical experience, most people fully recover within 14 days. If a patient experiences severe coughing, it is recommended to take expectorant medications such as ambroxol hydrochloride tablets, compound licorice tablets, or Chuanbei Pipa syrup under medical supervision. For yellow phlegm, traditional Chinese medicines that clear the lungs and resolve phlegm—such as Compound Fresh Bamboo Extract, Lingyang Qingfei Pills, Fulike, or Jizhi Syrup—are recommended.
Persistent coughing after testing negative for the novel coronavirus may not only stem from the aforementioned reasons but could also indicate conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia. As treatments vary depending on the underlying cause, patients should follow medical advice regarding medication.
