In January 2025, Calgary experienced a significant uptick in respiratory illnesses, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19, with influenza being the most prevalent. Flu cases, particularly the influenza A (H1N1) strain, were notably high during this period. Many patients have experienced lingering symptoms such as persistent coughing, excessive phlegm, and fatigue. While it’s common for these symptoms to improve over time, they can sometimes persist, and it is a good idea to see your doctor if they do.
The Difference Between Flu, RSV, and COVID-19
While flu, RSV, and COVID-19 all affect the respiratory system, they are caused by different viruses and require distinct approaches for treatment and recovery:
Flu (Influenza): Caused by influenza viruses, this illness is often characterized by fever, body aches, chills, extreme fatigue, sore throat, and cough. The flu is more likely to cause widespread systemic symptoms like muscle aches, fatigue, and high fever. It can also lead to secondary infections, including pneumonia.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): RSV affects primarily the lungs and causes bronchiolitis or pneumonia, particularly in infants, elderly adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include wheezing, difficulty breathing, a severe cough, and nasal congestion. RSV is often milder than the flu but can be dangerous for vulnerable populations.
COVID-19: Caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, COVID-19 has symptoms similar to the flu but can include loss of taste or smell, gastrointestinal issues (like diarrhea), and more severe complications, including difficulty breathing, pneumonia, and multi-organ failure. COVID-19 also tends to have a much higher rate of transmission.
Though these diseases share some overlapping symptoms, a TCM practitioner assesses each person individually.
Signs and Symptoms of Post-Flu and the Importance of Treating These During Post-Flu Care
Even after the acute symptoms of flu, RSV, or COVID-19 subside, many individuals experience lingering post-flu symptoms. These include:
Persistent cough: Often accompanied by phlegm, this can remain even after the fever and body aches have passed.
Fatigue: A feeling of tiredness or lack of energy that doesn’t resolve easily with rest.
Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or a sensation of tightness in the chest, often from phlegm buildup in the lungs.
Muscle or joint pain: Lingering aches or stiffness in the body, particularly in the back, neck, or legs.
Headaches: Some individuals experience tension or pressure in their head long after the flu has passed.
Digestive disturbances: Nausea, indigestion, or a lack of appetite due to weakened digestion from the flu or COVID-19.
Sleep disturbances: Difficulty sleeping or disturbed sleep patterns, often exacerbated by lingering flu symptoms or post-viral fatigue.
Decreased immunity: Higher susceptibility to colds or other illnesses due to a weakened immune system after the flu, RSV, or COVID-19.
The Importance of Post-Flu Care
Lingering symptoms should be checked by your doctor. In TCM, unresolved symptoms are traditionally thought to contribute to:
Chronic respiratory concerns: TCM traditionally holds that unresolved phlegm and dampness may linger. Please see your doctor about any persistent cough.
Weakened immunity: A weakened immune system can leave the body vulnerable to future illnesses.
Digestive problems: Lingering symptoms can affect the digestion and spleen, leading to bloating, poor appetite, or nausea.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is traditionally used for what it describes as residual phlegm and to support overall balance, alongside your medical care.
The Role of TCM in Post-Flu Recovery
TCM is traditionally used for what it describes as residual dampness and lingering phlegm after illnesses such as flu, RSV, and COVID-19. TCM treatments, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, focus on:
Expelling Remaining Pathogens: In TCM terms, herbs are traditionally used at the start of recovery for what is described as remaining pathogens; this does not mean herbs treat a viral infection. As recovery progresses, formulas evolve to address phlegm and dampness, which are common in all three illnesses.
Clearing Phlegm and Dampness: Herbs like Ban Xia (半夏) and Chen Pi (陈皮) are traditionally used for what TCM describes as phlegm and dampness.
Supporting Qi: TCM traditionally uses Qi-boosting herbs like Huang Qi (黄芪) and Bai Zhu (白术) to support what it describes as the Lung and Spleen systems.
Supporting Balance: TCM traditionally aims to address residual dampness and phlegm. Acupuncture and herbal medicine may help support balance.
Acupuncture for Post-Flu Recovery
Acupuncture is traditionally used in TCM for phlegm and low energy. Points like LU5 (尺泽) and ST40 (丰隆) are traditionally used for phlegm, while LI4 (合谷) and ST36 (足三里) are traditionally used to support recovery.
Additional Lifestyle Recommendations
Herbal Teas: Roasted Jie Geng (桔梗) is traditionally used for phlegm, Xing Ren (杏仁) for cough, and Sang Ye (桑叶) for what TCM describes as heat in the lungs. Please check with Dr. Kim before using herbs.
Hydration & Warm Foods: Warm ginger and honey teas may feel soothing when you have mucus.
Breathing Exercises: Gentle Qi Gong or deep breathing exercises can help support lung function and aid in phlegm clearance.
Avoiding Dairy and Greasy Foods: In TCM, these foods are thought to contribute to excess dampness and may worsen lingering symptoms.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Post-Flu Recovery for Long-Term Health
With flu, RSV, and COVID-19 cases still prevalent in Calgary, it's essential to address lingering symptoms post-recovery. TCM treatments such as acupuncture and herbal medicine may help with what TCM describes as lingering phlegm and may support general wellness. TCM is complementary care and does not treat the infection, so please see your doctor about ongoing symptoms and do not change any medication without medical advice.
TCM offers a holistic approach that may support you during post-illness recovery.