Coughs and Colds Lasting Weeks, An IPB University Doctor Explains the Causes

Complaints of coughs, colds, and fevers that last longer than usual have been common among the public lately. Many believe that this current flu outbreak is more “stubborn” and takes weeks to fully recover from.

dr Wahyu Rachwaldy, a physician at the IPB University Clinic, explained that this condition is not merely a subjective feeling but a medical phenomenon that can be explained based on viral dynamics, environmental conditions, and the body’s immune response.

“Reports from various global and national health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Indonesian Ministry of Health, confirm an increase in cases of upper respiratory tract infections (ISPA) with symptoms that persist longer (protracted viral symptoms),” he said.

He explained that this phenomenon of the flu lasting longer than usual is caused by several key factors. One of them is the co-circulation of various types of respiratory viruses in the community, ranging from influenza A/B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinovirus, and adenovirus to SARS-CoV-2.

“In addition, there is also the phenomenon of post-pandemic immunity debt, which occurs when changes in patterns of pathogen exposure over the past few years force the body’s immune system to readjust when exposed to multiple viruses in rapid succession,” he added.

Recognizing Normal Limits
According to dr Wahyu, uncomplicated upper respiratory tract viral infections generally follow a predictable course of illness. During the acute phase, the first through third days symptoms peak, including fever, sore throat, nasal congestion, body aches, and fatigue. By the fourth through seventh days, the fever begins to subside and energy levels gradually recover, although a cough and nasal discharge may persist.

“Ultimately, people with healthy immune systems generally make a full recovery within seven to ten days, although mild residual symptoms like a dry cough may persist for up to two weeks,” he added.

However, dr Wahyu continued, the flu or upper respiratory tract infection (ISPA) can be classified as persistent or abnormal if primary symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, or a cough with thick phlegm last more than 10 to 14 days without improvement.

“The public also needs to be aware of double sickening, a condition where symptoms improve for one to two days, only to worsen drastically again with a high fever or shortness of breath,” he explained.

Specific local symptoms, such as severe pain in the face or forehead indicating sinusitis, as well as sharp ear pain leading to hearing loss, are signs of an infection requiring special attention.

According to dr Wahyu, a prolonged flu is not always caused by an active viral infection. Damage to the mucous membranes can facilitate bacterial growth and trigger secondary infections such as acute bacterial sinusitis, bronchitis, or pneumonia.

Persistent inflammation can also cause a post-infectious cough. This condition makes the airways highly sensitive to cold air, smoke, or dust, triggering a dry cough that lasts three to eight weeks.

“Other factors that slow recovery include recurrent infections caused by exposure to different types of viruses just as one is about to recover, as well as the onset of previously latent allergic reactions or asthma,” he noted.

The Environment Also Plays a Role
Furthermore, dr Wahyu explained that extreme weather changes and air pollution can worsen symptoms and prolong recovery. Exposure to PM2.5, NO₂, and SO₂ can damage cilia and epithelial membranes, thereby disrupting the body’s natural mechanisms for expelling mucus and pathogens.

“Constant pollution also triggers chronic inflammation that worsens swelling of the nasal and throat mucosa. Additionally, cold and dry air can reduce the production of protective mucus and slow down the local immune response in the nasal area,” dr Wahyu explained.

For this reason, he urged the public to consult a healthcare professional immediately if their flu symptoms do not improve. Medical attention is essential if patients experience shortness of breath, labored or wheezing breathing, severe chest pain or a feeling of tightness when breathing, as well as a high fever that persists for more than three to five consecutive days.

Other warning signs include phlegm that is dark green, brown, or mixed with blood, as well as a loss of consciousness, severe dizziness, and dehydration. (dh) (IAAS/LAN)