Feeling sick one day, starting to feel better the next, and then suddenly feeling awful again can be frustrating. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms that come and go, you may wonder whether you have the flu or if something else is going on. Symptoms such as fatigue, body aches, chills, headache, congestion, and fever can fluctuate throughout an illness. Sometimes this is simply part of your body's normal response to an infection. In other cases, symptoms that improve and then return may be a sign that you have developed a complication or a second illness. Here are some common reasons your flu-like symptoms may come and go.
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1. You Have the Flu
Influenza can cause symptoms that vary in intensity throughout the illness. You may feel somewhat better after resting or taking medication, only to have symptoms return later. Common flu symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Body aches
- Headache
- Significant fatigue
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sweating
- Loss of appetite
Flu symptoms often begin suddenly and can be more intense than those associated with a typical cold. It is also possible for your fever and other symptoms to fluctuate throughout the day. Feeling temporarily better does not necessarily mean the infection has completely cleared.
2. You're Recovering From a Viral Infection
Many respiratory viruses can cause symptoms that gradually improve over time rather than disappearing all at once. You may have a day when your energy starts to come back, followed by another day when fatigue, constipation, congestion, or coughing feels worse. Your symptoms can also seem more noticeable after physical activity or a poor night's sleep. Recovery does not always happen in a perfectly straight line. However, if you feel like you are clearly recovering and then develop new or significantly worse symptoms, it's worth paying attention.
3. You Have a Different Respiratory Infection
Flu-like symptoms are not exclusive to influenza. Other viral infections can cause similar symptoms, including:
- COVID-19
- Common cold viruses
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
- Other respiratory viruses
Because these infections can cause overlapping symptoms, you cannot always determine which virus is responsible based on symptoms alone. Depending on your symptoms and risk factors, a healthcare provider may recommend testing.
4. A Secondary Infection Has Developed
One reason symptoms may improve and then return is that a secondary infection develops while you are recovering from an initial viral illness. For example, a respiratory infection may be followed by a sinus infection or another bacterial infection. Watch for a batter in which you start feeling better, notice your original symptoms improving, and then suddenly develop new or significantly worse symptoms. A return of fever, worsening facial pain, increasing congestion, worsening cough, or new shortness of breath may warrant a medical evaluation.
5. Your Symptoms Improve With Medication But Return Later
Some over-the-counter medications can temporarily reduce symptoms such as fever, headaches, congestion, and body aches. When the medication wears off, those symptoms may become noticeable again. This does not necessarily mean your illness is getting worse. However, if you find yourself relying on medication for an extended period or your symptoms continue to worsen, consider talking with a healthcare provider.
When Should I Be Concerned About Symptoms That Come and Go?
Not every fluctuation in symptoms is a reason for concern. Your energy, congestion, cough, and other symptoms can naturally vary while your body fights an infection. However, pay attention to the overall trend. Consider seeking medical care if:
- Your symptoms are getting progressively worse
- A fever returns after being going
- You improve and then suddenly become much sicker
- You develop worsening facial pain or pressure
- Your cough becomes more severe or you develop shortness of breath
- You're having difficulty staying hydrated
- Symptoms are lasting longer than expected
An urgent care provider can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether testing or additional treatment may be appropriate.
Get Same-Day Flu Symptom Relief at AFC Urgent Care Denver Five Points
Flu-like symptoms that come and go can have several causes. You may simply be experiencing the normal ups and downs of recovering from a viral infection, but fluctuating symptoms can also occur with a secondary infection or different virus. The most important thing is to look at the overall pattern. If you're unsure what's causing your symptoms, a visit to urgent care can help determine the culprit. Looking for a same-day evaluation and treatment plan? Visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Five Points. Our center is conveniently located at 3177 Downing Street in Denver, CO. We're open 7 days a week, just walk in! Most insurance plans are accepted and low-cost options are available for self-paying patients. If you have questions, call us today at (303) 758-2800.