How many days will the flu get better?

Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
Updated on February 26, 2025
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Influenza refers to a series of diseases characterized mainly by sore throat, cough, and fever, which occur after the respiratory tract of humans is infected by the influenza virus. We call it influenza, or epidemic flu, which is generally caused by a viral infection and is a self-limiting disease. Usually, it can naturally improve within 7-10 days. Of course, this refers to people with normal immunity, such as young people or those who generally have good physical health. However, elderly and children might experience a prolonged illness, which could extend to 10-15 days, and may even lead to related complications due to influenza, such as influenza meningitis, influenza pneumonia, or even influenza myocarditis. Therefore, special attention should be given to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and pregnant women.

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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How many days does it take to recover from the flu?

Influenza is primarily a disease caused by an infection of the upper respiratory tract with the influenza virus. It is a contagious disease that can spread among people, leading to an outbreak. Although influenza is a frightening illness, it is a viral infection characterized by being self-limiting, meaning that whether or not medication is used, the patient's condition can improve on its own. Typically, the course of influenza can improve on its own within about 7 to 10 days. At this time, it is sufficient to use medications that reduce fever, relieve pain, or treat nasal congestion and coughing, since patients generally recover on their own after about 7 days, and medication is only needed to alleviate symptoms. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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What should I do if the flu recurs with fever?

Influenza, also known as the flu, refers to a disease characterized primarily by sore throat, cough, and fever, caused by an influenza virus infection of the upper respiratory tract during the flu season. Due to the repeated replication of the influenza virus after entering the human body, it triggers an immune response between the person and the virus, thus causing repeated fevers. However, for a person with normal immunity, the flu can improve on its own, usually over 7 to 10 days. During these 7 to 10 days, if the fever recurs, it can be managed with some antipyretic medicines. Both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine have relevant drugs. After the fever subsides, the flu can usually heal on its own within about 3 to 5 days. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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Can people with phlegm-dampness eat eggs?

Yes. Influenza refers to a type of disease characterized by fever, sore throat, and cough which occurs after human body is infected with influenza viruses, including type A, B, and C. It is also called epidemic influenza. Influenza is a class B infectious disease as legally defined in our country and has a certain transmissibility among the population. Patients often experience fatigue, loss of appetite, and decreased resistance after contracting influenza. As for eggs, they contain a balanced mix of nutrients, including rich proteins, trace elements, amino acids, and common vitamins, etc. Therefore, it is generally recommended to consume some eggs during influenza to improve the nutritional status and resistance of patients, which is beneficial for their recovery.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Can the flu cause recurring fever?

Influenza can cause recurrent fever as a symptom. Epidemic influenza, also caused by influenza or parainfluenza virus infection, is a type of acute respiratory infectious disease. The presence of the virus in the body can stimulate the body's temperature regulation center, which may cause recurrent episodes of fever, typically lasting about three to five days, and the fever should not persist beyond seven days, so there is no need for excessive worry. It is advised to drink plenty of water, rest adequately, and take appropriate antipyretic medication to manage the fever when it occurs. Additionally, antiviral medications like Qingkailing or antiviral oral solutions can be used for antiviral treatment. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by An Yong Peng
Pulmonology
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What to do if you are afraid of cold with type A influenza?

Patients with Type A influenza who are sensitive to cold often need to pay attention to appropriate warmth. Additionally, monitoring the patient's temperature is necessary, and if the patient has a fever, it is often necessary to use antipyretic medications to control their temperature and alleviate symptoms of chilliness and cold sensitivity. For Type A influenza, it is generally recommended to start antiviral treatment with a neuraminidase inhibitor orally within 48 hours of onset. Antiviral treatment can help shorten the duration of illness and reduce the complications related to Type A influenza. Moreover, in cases of Type A influenza where the patient is sensitive to cold, it is also important to pay attention to a light diet and proper hydration. Avoiding staying up late and excessive physical exertion are non-pharmacological measures that also help with the condition.