How long does a Respiratory flu last?
The duration of a respiratory flu, commonly referred to as influenza, can vary depending on several factors, including the individual’s overall health and the specific strain of the virus. Generally, the symptoms of the flu can last anywhere from a few days to about two weeks.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical timeline:
- Incubation Period : After exposure to the virus, symptoms typically appear within 1 to 4 days.
- Symptom Duration :
- Mild cases may see symptoms resolve within 3 to 5 days.
- Moderate to severe cases can last longer, potentially 7 to 14 days, especially with lingering cough and fatigue.
- Recovery : Even after acute symptoms improve, some people may still feel fatigued or have a lingering cough for several weeks.
It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms are severe or last longer than expected, as secondary infections or complications can sometimes occur.
If you have an underlying cardiac or Respiratory issue then the flu can affect you more and make you feel very unwell.
If you have underlying asthma or COPD the cough and the wheeze can linger a lot longer. Also some types of Respiratory viruses cause more wheezing and lingering cough for e.g COVID 19 and RSV virus
A Respiratory specialist can help you by providing inhaler treatment for lingering coughs, assessing you for underlying asthma if symptoms don’t improve and also anticipating a secondary bacterial infection.
In the first instance if you are experiencing flu or flu-like symptoms the best option is to discuss it with your GP.