Flu Symptoms, Duration, and Supportive Care Options

Every January, flu-related searches spike — and for good reason. Cold weather, time spent indoors, and post-holiday fatigue can place extra strain on the immune system. One of the most common questions we hear is: How long does the flu last?

Understanding what’s typical — and how to support your body during this time — can make a meaningful difference.

Common Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms often come on suddenly and may include:

• Fever or chills

• Muscle or body aches

• Fatigue and weakness

• Headache

• Cough or sore throat

• Congestion or runny nose

Symptoms can range from mild to more intense, and not everyone experiences the flu in the same way.

How Long Does the Flu Usually Last?

For many people, flu symptoms begin to improve within 5–7 days, though fatigue, brain fog, or low energy can linger for one to two weeks. Recovery time varies and is influenced by sleep quality, stress levels, nutrition, hydration, and baseline immune health.

If symptoms worsen, persist longer than expected, or feel unusual for you, it’s important to seek appropriate medical care.

Supporting Immune Health During Flu Season

At EASTND Wellness Fredericton and Moncton, we focus on supporting the body’s natural ability to recover and stay resilient, especially during peak cold and flu season.

Naturopathic Medicine: Nutrition, Sleep & Immune Support

A visit with a Naturopathic Doctor often starts with foundational support — nutrition, sleep, and stress. Adequate sleep helps regulate immune function, while balanced nutrition provides the building blocks your immune system needs to respond effectively.

Depending on your individual needs, your ND may discuss supplements such as:

• Zinc, which plays a role in immune cell function

• Vitamin C, commonly used to support immune response

• Medicinal mushrooms, which may help support immune resilience

These strategies are often used to help support immune function and may help lessen the duration or severity of symptoms when illness does occur.

Acupuncture: Stress Reduction & Immune Support

Stress has a direct impact on immune health. Acupuncture is often used to help regulate the nervous system, support circulation, and promote relaxation. By helping reduce stress and support overall balance, acupuncture may play a supportive role during flu season — both for prevention and recovery.

IV Therapy & Injections: Supportive Care by Consult

Hydration and nutrient status are especially important during times of illness or prolonged stress. A consult can help determine whether IV therapy or injections may be an appropriate option for you.

IV therapy is sometimes explored to support hydration and nutrient availability when oral intake is limited, digestion is compromised, or recovery feels slow. These services are always discussed on an individual basis to ensure they align with your needs.

When to Book a Consult

If you find yourself getting sick frequently, struggling with prolonged fatigue, or feeling run down during winter months, a consult with a Naturopathic Doctor can help you explore personalized strategies to support your immune health.

Cold and flu season can be challenging — but thoughtful, proactive support can help you feel more resilient through it.