Colds, flu, RSV, and COVID-19 are common during winter, but symptoms should gradually improve. At Lung & Sleep Specialists, we often see patients in January whose respiratory symptoms never fully resolved.
When a Winter Illness Becomes a Lung Issue
If you’ve been sick but still have a lingering cough, chest tightness, wheezing, or shortness of breath, it may indicate:
- Post-infectious airway inflammation
- Undiagnosed asthma
- Chronic bronchitis
- Pneumonia complications
- Worsening COPD
Ignoring lingering symptoms can allow inflammation or infection to progress.
Red Flags That Warrant a Pulmonary Visit
- Cough lasting longer than 3–4 weeks
- Shortness of breath at rest or with mild activity
- Chest pain or tightness
- Wheezing that wasn’t present before
- Repeated respiratory infections
How Pulmonary Specialists Help
Our team evaluates lung function, oxygen levels, and airway inflammation to identify the cause of persistent symptoms. Treatment plans are tailored to reduce inflammation, improve breathing, and prevent future complications.
Don’t Carry Last Year’s Illness Into the New Year
If you’re still struggling to breathe comfortably weeks after being sick, January is the right time to seek care and ensure your lungs are healthy moving forward.