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Cold & Flu

How Long Does Flu Last? (And How to Avoid It)

The flu is exhausting and grim. It steals your energy, stops you focusing on tasks, and is downright uncomfortable to experience.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

The flu is exhausting and grim. It steals your energy, stops you focusing on tasks, and is downright uncomfortable to experience. When you sneeze and your bones ache, the first thing you want to know is when it will all be over. Later, when you’re fighting fit, you’ll benefit from knowing how to do your best to stave-off the dreaded bug. Here’s how long you can expect the pesky germ invasion to last and how not to invite it into your life again.

How long can you expect flu to last?

Symptoms usually appear from one to four days after exposure to the virus, and they last five to seven days. If yours hangs around longer, go to a doctor for advice. Most often, people can expect their symptoms to begin about four days after exposure to flu germs and the worst to be over in less than a week.

While you wait for the flu to leave, eat healthy foods and get as much sleep as you need rather than struggling to work. As a result, you’re likely to get well soon. If you don’t and nasty symptoms like blood-stained phlegm or chest pains are apparent, take your symptoms seriously. Visit the doctor for assistance, as this could indicate a blockage in your airways.

How to keep flu at bay

People who are susceptible to catching flu often eat a poor diet. Make sure you consume plenty of clean foods–that means unprocessed food that hasn’t been altered from its original state beyond recognition.

Fruit, vegetables, nuts, healthy fats, and lean meat or fish may go on your menu, but steer clear of croissants, candies, and other unhealthy snacks. Ensure you wash your hands after visiting public places too. Germs that cause flu can be found on armrests, doorknobs, and other places infected people touch.

The flu is unpleasant but doesn’t usually last for long. If you catch it, stay away from school or work to prevent the bug spreading. Also, rest and eat nourishing food. Within a week or so, you’ll be well again.

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