The flu, or influenza, is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Most people experience flu symptoms like fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, and fatigue over the course of a few days to a week. However, some may notice symptoms returning after feeling better. If you’ve wondered whether flu symptoms can come back, the answer is yes, but this typically depends on a few factors. In this blog, we’ll explore the fluctuation of flu symptoms and when to seek professional care.
For same-day flu treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale. Our medical team is available 7 days a week to provide flu testing, vaccination, and treatment. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!
Why Do Flu Symptoms Seem To Return?
In some cases, people feel better for a day or two and then notice their symptoms worsening or new ones appearing. This can happen for a several reasons, including:
1. Incomplete Recovery: When battling the flu, it’s tempting to resume normal activities as soon as you feel slightly better. However, doing so can strain your body and delay complete recovery. The immune system needs time to fully fight off the virus, and overexertion can cause lingering symptoms to resurface.
2. Secondary Infections: The flu can weaken your immune system, making it easier for other infections to take hold. For example, you might recover from the flu only to develop a bacterial infection like sinusitis, bronchitis, or even pneumonia. These secondary infections can cause flu-like symptoms to return or worsen.
3. Reinfection: While rare, reinfection with a different strain of the flu virus is possible. The flu virus evolves quickly, so your body’s immunity to one strain may not protect you from another. If you’re exposed to someone sick with a different strain, you could experience symptoms again.
4. Post-Viral Syndrome: After recovering from the flu, some people may develop lingering symptoms such as fatigue, muscle aches, or a persistent cough. These symptoms are part of what’s known as post-vital syndrome and can last for weeks after the initial infection.
How To Tell If Symptoms Are Back or If It’s Something Else
It’s important to differentiate between recurring flu symptoms and other illnesses. First off, take a look at the duration of symptoms. If you feel better for more than a few days before symptoms return, it could be a secondary infection rather than the flu itself. Watch for additional signs like chest pain, shortness of breath, or a high fever, which could indicate a secondary bacterial infection. In addition, worsening fatigue and persistent exhaustion may signal psot-viral fatigue or a need for further rest. If you’re unsure, visiting an urgent care center for a professional evaluation is the best course of action.
To avoid recurring symptoms, consider these tips:
- Rest adequately
- Stay hydrated
- Get your annual flu shot
- Consult a medical provider for an accurate diagnosis
Get Walk-In Flu Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale
While flu symptoms can return under certain circumstances, proper rest, hydration, and supportive care can help ensure a smooth recovery. If you’re experiencing fluctuating or prolonged symptoms, don’t hesitate to visit us at AFC Urgent Care Denver Leetsdale for testing and treatment. Early intervention can prevent complications and get you back on the path to good health. Our urgent care center is conveniently located at 850 S Monaco Pkwy, Suite 10 in Denver, CO. We’re open seven days a week and appointments are never required to be seen by a board-certified medical provider.
Our facility accepts most health insurance plans and offers cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about flu symptoms or treatment, please contact our team directly at (303) 935-1000.
