Persistent cough after recovering from COVID-19
Jan 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
"Yang Kang" generally refers to recovery from a novel coronavirus infection. If a patient continues to cough after recovering from the infection, this may be a normal phenomenon, or it could be caused by other conditions such as the common cold or bronchial asthma. Further medical evaluation at a hospital is necessary to determine the underlying cause, followed by appropriate drug treatment. Patients are advised to promptly visit a hospital for diagnostic tests such as pulmonary function tests and chest X-rays to clarify the cause.
Recovery from yang (referring to recovery from a previous infection with the novel coronavirus) generally means that the patient has recovered from COVID-19. If a patient continues to cough after recovering, this may be a normal phenomenon, or it could be caused by other conditions such as the common cold or bronchial asthma. Further evaluation at a hospital is recommended to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate medical treatment.
1. Normal phenomenon
After a novel coronavirus infection, the upper respiratory mucosa may not have fully healed, leading to local secretions in the respiratory tract. The body uses coughing to expel these secretions, resulting in persistent coughing. This is considered a normal part of the recovery process and typically requires no special concern. Patients are advised to drink plenty of water.
2. Common cold
Following recovery from a novel coronavirus infection, patients may still have weakened physical conditions and lowered immunity, making them more susceptible to bacterial or viral infections such as the common cold. This can lead to ongoing irritation of the upper respiratory tract and persistent coughing. It is recommended that patients take medications such as Sangju Cold Tablets, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Oral Solution, or Amoxicillin Capsules under a doctor's guidance.
3. Bronchial asthma
If a patient already has bronchial asthma, the damage caused by a novel coronavirus infection may trigger an acute exacerbation of chronic respiratory diseases. Since bronchial asthma is a chronic respiratory condition, the infection might provoke asthma symptoms, causing persistent coughing even after recovery. Under medical supervision, patients may use medications like Beclomethasone Dipropionate Aerosol or Budesonide Aerosol to alleviate discomfort.
Patients are advised to visit a hospital promptly for diagnostic tests such as pulmonary function tests and chest X-rays to identify the exact cause. Additionally, patients should drink plenty of warm water, maintain a light diet, ensure proper indoor ventilation, and keep the air fresh and clean.
