How long flu last

But if you actually have the flu, you can get very sick. There is no cure for a cold, the CDC says — it will get better on its own. People with health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease that put them at at high risk for flu complications should seek treatment right away.

As for home remedies, there is evidence that zinc , taken by mouth in the form of lozenges, tablets, or syrups, can help reduce the length of colds if taken within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH.

The NCCIH adds that zinc can cause nausea and gastrointestinal issues, and that it can interact with other medication, such as antibiotics. Acetaminophen Tylenol and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen Advil, Motrin, and Ibuprin are effective treatments for fever and aches caused by either a cold or the flu.

People with either illness should also be sure to rest and drink plenty of fluids. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics. Health Tools. Reviewed: March 27, Medically Reviewed. Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking. Common Cold. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. February 6, Home Infections. Flu influenza. Actions for this page Listen Print. Summary Read the full fact sheet. On this page.

What is the flu influenza? How can I avoid the flu? I think I have the flu — should I see a doctor? When to seek medical attention How can I avoid giving the flu to other people?

What medications should I take for the flu? Tips for buying over-the-counter medications Looking after yourself when you have the flu Other useful tips for flu recovery Where to get help. It is estimated that flu contributes to more than 3, deaths in Australia each year.

Other symptoms can be: chills aching behind the eyes loss of appetite sore throat runny or stuffy nose. Having the flu is even more likely if you have been in contact with someone who already has it. Diagnosing flu Flu, and other kinds of viruses, can only be confirmed by a doctor after a nose or throat swab has returned positive results.

What to expect with the flu Symptoms of the flu hit very quickly and may last several weeks. A bout of the flu typically follows this pattern: Days 1—3: Sudden appearance of fever, headache, muscle pain and weakness, dry cough, sore throat and sometimes a stuffy nose.

Day 4: Fever and muscle aches decrease. Hoarse, dry or sore throat, cough and possible mild chest discomfort become more noticeable. You may feel tired or flat. Antibiotics cannot treat the flu. The flu is a virus, and antibiotics only treat bacterial infections.

However, some people develop secondary infections because of the flu. Children are especially vulnerable to ear infections , but adults can get them too. If symptoms suddenly change or get worse, this could mean that there is a new infection, which could be viral or bacterial. People should try to see a doctor within 24 to 48 hours after flu symptoms appear, as this is when antiviral treatments are most effective.

It is also important to see a doctor if symptoms do not improve after 7 days or new symptoms, such as ear pain, appear.

Most people who get the flu will have symptoms that last between 3 and 7 days. If they develop complications, they may be ill for longer. Thousands of people die from the flu every year. Children, older adults, or people with compromised immune systems are much more vulnerable to flu complications.

People should take the flu seriously by resting and avoiding public places until their symptoms disappear. With rest and medical care, it is possible to recover even from serious complications. Anyone with severe flu symptoms should see a doctor. To reduce the risk of getting the flu again, a person can get the flu shot every year.

Flu infections dropped after the introduction of COVID restrictions, but this reduced exposure to influenza may mean reduced population immunity. Are swine flu vaccines safe and effective?

These complications can be due to influenza virus in itself or because of a secondary bacterial infection. Serious flu-related complications can lead to hospitalization and even death. Additionally, flu infection may make preexisting conditions worse. For example, if you have asthma , you may experience more severe asthma attacks while you have the flu. According to the CDC , influenza A H3N2 viruses have been associated with more hospitalizations and deaths in children and the elderly than other human influenza subtypes or strains, such as influenza A H1N1 and influenza B.

Despite having some overlapping symptoms, colds and the flu are two separate illnesses. Colds are typically milder than the flu. Cold symptoms will typically resolve in about 7 to 10 days and tend to not come on as fast as the flu. Flu symptoms may last for a couple of weeks. Learn more about the differences between a cold and the flu. The influenza virus can also survive on surfaces, such as doorknobs and tables, for up to 24 hours. Viruses live longer on materials such as stainless steel, plastic, and other hard surfaces.

To avoid transmitting the virus to others, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face or mouth. You can also take over-the-counter pain and fever relievers, such as ibuprofen Advil or acetaminophen Tylenol , to help relieve your symptoms.