Experiencing flu symptoms for over a week, how long this will last?
I have been experiencing flu symptoms for over a week and am concerned about how long this will last. I have missed 7 days of work. First 4 days I spent in bed with chills, congestion, head and body aches, cough, not eating. Then for about 3 days continued congestion, productive cough, chills/sweats. Still very sick but not as sick as the first 4 days. I now feel worse again past 2 days and this morning. Cough worse, headache, chest congestion, and fatigue today. No difficulty breathing. I have not been in to see my physician. Clinic is overloaded and i have no insurance. We are treating with rest, fluids and cold/cough medicine. Initially was told duration could be 1-2 weeks. Wondering what to expect next!! Because I’m not getting better, I’m getting worse.
THANK you
(—)
Age: 62
Male
Medications: None
General Information: OCT allergy meds
Hi..
Thanks for the query.
Flu symptoms can last for about 1-2 weeks with the severe symptoms lasting for not more than a week..
You can continue to treat it with cold medicine, do steam inhalation, saline nasal irrigation and drink plenty of warm fluids .
Take sufficient rest..
Avoid spicy and chilled foods..
Take Vitamin C supplement daily as it boosts immunity..
Hope this helps..
Should I be concerned that I am feeling worse now when I began to feel slightly better for several days?
Not yet, wait a few days. Consult if situation gets worse.
Hello, flu symptoms especially cough does persist upto 1-2 weeks Post Febrile episode. If you don’t have fever anymore then don’t worry please take steam inhalation twice a day. Diet rich in vitamin C or even vitamin C supplements would help you. But if you have fever still you need to start taking antibiotics at least for a period of 3-5 days. Take good rest and have plenty of water.But if you devolop any breathing difficulties then you may need to visit the emergency.
Hi.Flu symptoms usually get better within 1-2 weeks.You are already doing your best.Continue with the same.Get a complete blood count and Xray chest done.That will help in ruling out any other pathology.Take nutritious diet rich in vitamin A and C.Take warm liquids.If congestion is more please ask doctor about need of nebulization.Wishing you a speedy recovery!