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HOW LONG DO COLD OR FLU SYMPTOMS LAST?
When you feel yourself coming down with a common cold, you’re probably wondering, how long will it last? Typical symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, and cough can last from 2 to 14 days.1 However, about two-thirds of people recover in about 1 week. For the flu, the main symptoms are coughing, aching, a high fever, and extreme fatigue.1 Like a cold, most people recuperate within a week, but flu symptoms are more severe.2
Can you make it go away faster?
Unfortunately, if you’ve caught a cold or the flu, nothing can cure it immediately. A cold or the flu typically has a life cycle of about 1 week. The key to recovering and feeling like yourself sooner is maintaining a strong immune system. That means getting enough sleep and drinking plenty of water.3 You should also avoid drinks like coffee, tea, and colas because they contain caffeine that can dehydrate you.
How to get symptom relief
Colds account for more school absences and missed work than any other illness. However, over-the-counter cold and flu medicines, such as Theraflu®, will help ease your symptoms. Getting symptom relief during sleep can help you feel better. After all, sleep-deprived people produce fewer virus-fighting cells.4 If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
*Use only as directed.
SOURCES
1. CDC (2016, May 23). Flu Symptoms & Complications. Retrieved April 24, 2017, from https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/complications.htm
2. MedlinePlus (2017, January 2). Flu. Retrieved April 24, 2017, from https://medlineplus.gov/flu.html
3. CDC (2015, August). The Flu: A Guide for Parents. Retrieved April 24, 2017, from http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/updated/fluguideforparents_trifold.pdf
4. Mayo Clinic (2015, June 9). Lack of Sleep: Can it Make You Sick? Retrieved April 28, 2017, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/insomnia/expert-answers/lack-of-sleep/faq-20057757
