What are ground-glass nodules in the lungs after recovering from COVID-19, and what should be done about them?

In general, "Yang recovery" (post-COVID recovery) refers to a situation where the result of SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing or nucleic acid testing has changed from positive to negative, and the body is gradually recovering. The appearance of ground-glass nodules in the lungs after recovery may be related to lung self-repair, sequelae of viral pneumonia, bacterial pneumonia, pulmonary fungal infection, pulmonary edema, and other causes. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive treatments such as general supportive care or medication under the guidance of a physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Lung Self-Repair

After SARS-CoV-2 infection, the lungs may undergo a period of repair and reconstruction. During this process, some transient ground-glass nodules may form, which represent the lung's response during viral clearance and tissue repair. These nodules typically do not cause noticeable symptoms. Adequate rest, avoiding overexertion, and maintaining healthy lifestyle and dietary habits can support lung health.

2. Sequelae of Viral Pneumonia

Following SARS-CoV-2 infection, some patients may experience an excessive immune response triggered by the virus, leading to alveolar wall damage and inflammatory cell infiltration, resulting in localized fibrosis during tissue repair. This may appear as ground-glass opacities or consolidation on imaging. Common symptoms include dry cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Treatment may include medications such as ipratropium bromide aerosol, salbutamol inhalation aerosol, or salmeterol xinafoate aerosol, as prescribed by a doctor.

3. Bacterial Pneumonia

After SARS-CoV-2 infection, patients with weakened immunity are prone to secondary bacterial infections, leading to bacterial pneumonia. Inflammation and exudation caused by bacterial pneumonia can result in ground-glass nodules. Symptoms often include cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Treatment should follow medical advice and may involve medications such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection, levofloxacin for injection, or ceftazidime for injection.

4. Pulmonary Fungal Infection

During recovery, patients with reduced immunity are susceptible to concurrent pulmonary fungal infections. Infectious foci in the lungs may appear as ground-glass nodules. Symptoms may include fever, cough, and sputum production. Antifungal treatment under a doctor’s supervision may include itraconazole oral solution, fluconazole capsules, or caspofungin acetate for injection.

5. Pulmonary Edema

SARS-CoV-2 invasion can cause dilation of pulmonary capillaries, leading to significant fluid leakage into lung tissue and resulting in pulmonary edema. The increased fluid within alveoli appears as ground-glass opacities on imaging. Symptoms may also include rapid breathing and paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. Treatment under medical guidance may include furosemide injection, dobutamine hydrochloride injection, or phentolamine mesylate injection.

In daily life, maintaining adequate rest, engaging in moderate exercise, and keeping a positive mood are beneficial for overall health.