Why Do My Colds Last So Long, and How Can I Help it?

Having a cold is the worst; having one that just won’t go away is unbearable. A cold usually clears up in about 7 to 10 days. However, when you have colds that last longer than two weeks, it’s a sign there’s something wrong with your body.

If your colds frequently last longer than usual, there are a couple of reasons your body isn’t bouncing back as quickly as it should. These reasons range from underlying medical conditions you may not know you have to what part of the world you live in. 

To stop the vicious cycle of never-ending colds, you need the expert care of Mani Zadeh, MD, an experienced board-certified ear, nose, and throat specialist in Los Angeles, California. Here, he explains why your colds may be lasting longer than usual and what you can do to help speed up your recovery.

How long should a cold last?

The rhinovirus causes most common colds. Most people’s symptoms should begin to improve within 7 to 10 days, but the first three days are typically the most intense. You can expect to deal with a sore throat, runny nose, and cough. 

By the end of the first week, you should start to feel significantly better. You may experience mild symptoms like a slight cough or congestion, but they won’t be as severe as the first three days of your cold.

If your symptoms last over two weeks or even get worse, it could mean that something else is going on with your body that requires immediate medical attention. 

Common reasons why your cold lasts so long

Now that you know you should be concerned if your colds last longer than two weeks, here are the most common reasons this could be happening. 

Underlying medical conditions

Conditions such as asthma, allergies, or sinusitis can all make your colds last longer or feel more intense. For instance, if you have asthma, a cold can trigger symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath, which take longer to recover from.

Similarly, allergies can trigger chronic inflammation, making it harder for your body to fight a viral infection. The good news is Dr. Zadeh can help identify and manage any underlying conditions that may make your colds last longer.

Weakened immune system

If your immune system is compromised by chronic stress, poor nutrition, or an existing health condition, your body may struggle to fight off colds, causing them to linger.

Some people have naturally weaker immune systems because they are older or are undergoing certain treatments, such as chemotherapy. If you fit in this category, you need to support your immune health by eating a balanced diet, staying well hydrated, and getting enough sleep.

Persistent viral or bacterial infections

Sometimes, a cold can lead to a bacterial infection, such as sinusitis or bronchitis, which can cause your symptoms to linger and require a prescription antibiotic. 

A cold that lasts longer than expected could also be due to another viral infection. Viruses, like adenoviruses, can cause symptoms that last longer than the common cold, including fever, cough, and sore throat. 

Environmental factors

Where you live can also affect how long your cold lasts. Living in an area with many irritants, such as dust and mold, can extend or worsen cold symptoms. 

Dry indoor air, especially during the colder months, can also irritate your nose and throat, making it harder to recover from a cold. Air purifiers and keeping your home clean can help with such environmental factors. 

Reinfection

It’s not uncommon to catch a new cold before fully recovering from the previous one, especially if you have young children or work in a public area. In such cases, Dr. Zadeh can help you develop a strategy to manage symptoms more effectively and reduce your risk of reinfection.

If you’ve been dealing with a cold that just won’t go away, it’s time to see a specialist. Dr. Zadeh identifies any underlying conditions, treats secondary infections, and guides you on how to boost your immune system. Schedule an appointment with him online or call 310-286-0123 today.