A Tentative Analysis of Post-COVID-19 Sequelae Treatment
Abstract
This study explores 53 cases of post-COVID-19 sequelae treated by the author between early March and the end of April 2022, amidst the outbreak of the fifth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilizing an exploratory study approach, data were gathered, summarized, and analyzed to derive preliminary observations:
The number of consultations during this period exhibited a similar trend to the infection rate during the peak of the outbreak, appearing with a two-week lag.
Gender distribution among patients seeking consultation closely mirrored the ratio reported in the "2014-2015 Population Health Survey Report" by the Centre for Health Protection, with approximately a 4:6 ratio of males to females.
The age group with the highest number of consultations was 45-54 years old, consistent with the aforementioned report.
Analysis of the age distribution of patients seeking consultation suggested a preliminary conclusion that older individuals have a higher probability of developing post-COVID-19 sequelae compared to younger individuals.
Coughing was the predominant symptom of post-COVID-19 sequelae, accounting for approximately 43.7% of cases.
While upper respiratory discomfort was the main symptom, a diverse range of symptoms was observed, including weakness, palpitations, abdominal pain, constipation, testicular pain, and cognitive impairment.
A clustering analysis identified three main symptom clusters: coughing, fatigue, and regulation. These clusters may represent different stages of post-COVID-19 sequelae development.
The most frequently prescribed herbal formula was Allergy Decoction, followed by Er Chen Tang and Xiao Chai Hu Tang.
Traditional Chinese medicine theories and modern pharmacological analyses offer complementary explanations for the efficacy of Allergy Decoction in treating various allergic conditions, including post-COVID-19 sequelae.
The study reflects on the differences between Western academic approaches and traditional Chinese medicine in organizing clinical experiences, emphasizing the latter's emphasis on capturing higher-level principles.
Limitations of the study include the lack of a focused data collection plan, pre-planned theoretical and literature reviews, and follow-up assessments of treatment efficacy. The sample size also falls short of standard requirements for statistical significance. Therefore, the study aims to provide a profile of the study subjects rather than reaching generalizable conclusions.
(Full article is only available in Chinese.)