Positive Rapid Test on Day 10: COVID-19 Recovery and Risks

Ten days after diagnosis, the rapid test is still positive?

Hello Doctor, I am 20 years old and today marks the 10th day since my diagnosis.
I still test positive on the rapid test (the test line is faint, not as dark as when I was first diagnosed).
On the first day of my diagnosis, I had a fever, fatigue, and a cough (no other symptoms), but starting from the second day, I only had a cough.
The cough was more severe from days 3 to 6, during which I consulted a doctor and took cold medicine and two days of Qingguan No.
1.
After that, my cough gradually improved, and today, on the 10th day, I am almost not coughing at all.
During the period of my diagnosis, my mental state has been similar to how I felt before the diagnosis.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1) Does still testing positive on the 10th day indicate that my immune system is weaker, and does it mean that the viral load in my body is higher compared to those who test negative after 7 days? 2) Am I more likely to develop long COVID compared to those who test negative after 7 days? 3) Do I need to continue taking Qingguan No.
1 to help clear the virus from my body more quickly? Thank you, Doctor.

Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/12

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello,
1.
A positive result still indicates that viral proteins remain in the body, which does not necessarily mean that the immune system is weak or that there is a high viral load; some individuals may naturally retain certain viral proteins.

2.
The presence of a positive result does not have an absolute correlation with the development of long COVID.

3.
If you are asymptomatic, it is not recommended to use antiviral medications; instead, it is best to focus on maintaining your health.

Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2022/10/12

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding your COVID-19 recovery. It's understandable to have concerns about your health, especially after testing positive for ten days. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Positive Test on Day 10 and Immune Response: Testing positive on day ten, especially with a faint line, does not necessarily indicate that your immune system is weak or that you have a higher viral load compared to those who test negative by day seven. The presence of viral RNA or proteins can persist in the body for some time even after symptoms have resolved. This phenomenon is often due to remnants of the virus that may not be infectious. Each person's immune response is different, and some individuals may clear the virus more quickly than others. Factors such as age, overall health, and the presence of underlying conditions can influence how quickly the body can eliminate the virus.

2. Risk of Long COVID: The relationship between the duration of a positive test and the risk of developing long COVID is not straightforward. Research indicates that long COVID can occur regardless of the severity of the initial infection or the duration of positive tests. While some studies suggest that individuals with more severe symptoms may be at a higher risk, it is not a guarantee that those who test positive longer will experience long COVID. The best approach is to monitor your health and report any persistent or new symptoms to your healthcare provider.

3. Use of Qingguan No. 1: Regarding the use of Qingguan No. 1, it is important to note that while it has been approved for use, there is limited evidence supporting its effectiveness in treating COVID-19. If you are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms, continuing to take antiviral medications may not be necessary. Instead, focusing on rest, hydration, and a balanced diet can support your recovery. If you have concerns about lingering symptoms or the need for additional treatment, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

In summary, testing positive on day ten does not inherently indicate a weaker immune response or a higher risk of long COVID. Each individual's recovery process is unique, and ongoing monitoring of your health is crucial. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, please reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance. Remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress can also play a significant role in your recovery. Thank you for your questions, and take care!

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