Cold & Flu Related Illnesses Common Cold and Flu Complications Print By Kristina Duda, RN Updated May 17, 2018 Credit: Science Photo Library - IAN HOOTON/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images More in Cold & Flu Related Illnesses Prevention Symptoms Treatment Common Cold Stomach Flu Flu The common cold and the flu typically last about a week. But if your symptoms have lasted longer than that and start to change, you may be suffering from a secondary infection. Both illnesses can leave you feeling pretty miserable, but these common complications of the cold and flu can make you feel even worse. Here's what you need to know about four of the most common cold and flu complications. Bronchitis A nagging cough that lasts longer than 2 weeks may be bronchitis. It's likely caused by a virus, so it cannot be treated with antibiotics. See your healthcare provider, who will draw up a treatment plan. Symptoms of bronchitis include: A cough that may start dry and painful, and become productive with yellow or green mucusSore throatChest painChest congestionShortness of breathWheezingChillsBody aches Pneumonia A painful, productive cough may indicate pneumonia. It is a lung infection in which the lung's air sacs full up with pus or another liquid that makes it difficult for oxygen to reach the bloodstream. It usually occurs after you have had an infection such as the cold or flu. Pneumonia is a very serious illness that should be treated early, so contact your doctor immediately if you suspect any symptoms. Symptoms of pneumonia are: Frequent, painful and/or productive coughExtreme fatigueChest PainFeverChillsHeadachesShortness of breathBluish or grayish coloring around the mouthConfusion or altered mental state Ear Infections Ear infections are very common after a cold or the flu, especially a middle ear infection. Although adults do get them, they are much more common amongst children. They can be quite painful, but they're easily treatable with acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Older children and adults are usually able to identify an ear infection based on pain alone. For younger children, identifying an ear infection is a bit more difficult. Be on the lookout for these signs: Pulling on the earCrying more than usualDifficulty sleepingDrainage from the earProblems with balance or hearingUnexplained fever Sinus Infections Sinus infections occur when mucus gets caught in the sinus cavities and they become infected. They can be very painful and affect people of all ages. They're very treatable with decongestants, pain relievers, and saline sprays and rinses. Symptoms of sinus infections include: Pain or pressure in the face, especially around the eyes and noseCongestionHeadacheFeverWeakness and fatigueSore throatCough that may become worse at nightBad breathTemporary loss of sense of smell The Bottom Line If you have had a cold or the flu and your symptoms have changed, worsened or have not improved after two weeks, you need to see your healthcare provider. This list includes only some of the most common complications. There are many complications that occur from these illnesses. A visit to your health care provider will help you identify what is causing your symptoms and get you on the right treatment plan for you. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Looking to avoid getting the flu? Our free guide has everything you need to stay healthy this season. Sign up and get yours today. Email Address Sign Up There was an error. Please try again. Thank you, , for signing up. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit Continue Reading