Can flu symptoms last longer than 5-7 days?

[zen1]

Everything I've read on the web says that you can expect a bout of flu to last between 5 and 7 days, with an improvement after about 3 days. This is my 4th day now with a high temperature (varies between 100-102). I started off with chills and severe pains in limbs and back on Monday, yesterday I got severe diarrhoea, which I suppose has improved marginally after taking dioralyte. Now I have a pain in both ears when I swallow and a cough. The aches and pains have subsided a bit, but I don't feel anywhere near recovery. Just have to keep lying down all the time. Went to GP this morning in case it was something bacterial but they didn't seem to think so.

Anyone else experience a dragging on of symptoms, particularly fever?

Not I, but my DH had a 'flu before Christmas that dragged on for two full weeks.

It was horrendous. A few times it seemed like he was improving, but then the fever would come back, or he'd start vomiting again.

The GP said it was probably swine 'flu (although weirdly he had a really mild, short 'flu in the autumn that we were also told was swine 'flu).

I have had real flu onse and it took a fortnight to lift.

I'd say that was pretty average, from talking to others.

Bloody grim, isn't it?

Thanks for the responses. Yes, very grim. DH has taken 3 days off work this week to look after 3 DCs, but I don't think he can take off any more time so I am dreading it dragging on into next week. As I sit here sweat is running down my back.

Skidoodle, I keep thinking I am starting to feel better but then all symptoms come back again. Like your DH, I was told I had probable swine flu in August, but tbh it was nothing compared to this.