Lin Guorui asked again, "Before each fever, do you feel cold or get the chills?"
The older woman shook her head, stating firmly, "No. The fever just hits directly, and I feel waves of heat all over my body."
Lin Guorui continued his methodical questioning.
The patient experienced no chills prior to the onset of the fever. She had a dry cough with scant, thick sputum that was difficult to expectorate. She suffered from shortness of breath, panting even after minor activities like getting out of bed to use the restroom. Her appetite was poor, accompanied by generalized muscle soreness and fatigue, but she experienced no dry or bitter taste in her mouth. Her urine color was normal, and she had loose, unformed bowel movements twice a day.
Through this series of questions, Lin Guorui formed a general outline of her condition.
"Stick out your tongue and let me take a look," Lin Guorui said.
The older woman obediently complied.
Li Xu also took a glance.
