What are the symptoms of testing positive for COVID-19 for the third time, and what medications should be taken?
"Three-time positive for COVID-19" generally refers to the third infection with the novel coronavirus. Symptoms of a third infection may include high fever, sore and swollen throat, hoarseness, cough, headache, etc. Patients should seek medical attention promptly and take appropriate medications based on their symptoms. The following is a detailed analysis:
1. High Fever
If a person's immune system is relatively weak, a third infection with the novel coronavirus may disrupt the body's temperature regulation center, leading to abnormally high body temperature. Patients can use a wet towel to wipe areas such as palms and soles to help cool down. Additionally, they may take antipyretic medications such as ibuprofen suspension, acetaminophen granules, or Lianhua Qingwen capsules under medical guidance.
2. Sore and Swollen Throat
If the body fails to produce sufficient antibodies after a third infection, the virus may replicate extensively within the body, irritating the mucous membranes of the throat and causing symptoms such as throat swelling and pain. It is recommended to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of warm water. Under medical advice, patients may also use medications such as Jinzishizi Throat Tablets, Qinghou Liyan Granules, or Compound Borax Solution for treatment.
3. Hoarseness
Poor self-care during a third infection may damage the vocal cords, resulting in a hoarse voice. Patients should avoid excessive talking. Medications such as Xiao Chaihu Granules, Siji Kangbingdu Mixture, or Jinshang Sanjie Pills may be used under medical supervision to reduce symptom severity.
4. Cough
Failure to receive timely treatment after a third infection may lead to worsening symptoms, including persistent coughing. Patients should rest in bed, avoid smoking and alcohol, and follow medical advice to take medications such as bromhexine hydrochloride tablets, Feili Ke Syrup, or dextromethorphan hydrobromide granules to alleviate cough symptoms.
5. Headache
As the disease progresses, some individuals experiencing a third infection may develop brain involvement, which can result in headaches. Patients may find relief through clockwise massage of the temples. Under medical guidance, medications such as acetaminophen-caffeine-artemisinin capsules, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, or celecoxib capsules may also be used to relieve headache symptoms.
In daily life, it is important to maintain preventive measures against infection, avoiding crowded places to reduce the risk of cross-infection.