The flu, or influenza, is a common respiratory illness that affects millions of people each year. While most people associate the flu with symptoms like fever, chills, and a sore throat, some may experience less typical symptoms, including lower back pain. But can the flu really cause this type of discomfort? In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between the flu and this unexpected symptom, as well as explain when it might be necessary to seek medical attention.
For same-day cold & flu treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Clark. Our team is available 7 days a week to provide flu shots, treatment, and further guidance. Simply walk-in!
What Causes Flu-Related Lower Back Pain?
Lower back pain during the flu is often a result of systemic inflammation and muscle involvement. When you have the flu, your immune system releases inflammatory chemicals called cytokines to fight the virus. These chemicals can cause muscle inflammation and soreness, including in the lower back. Additionally, dehydration is a common side effect of the flu, especially if you have a fever. Dehydration can lead to muscle cramps and discomfort, including in the lower back.
Symptoms of The Flu
Influenza is caused by viruses that infect the respiratory system, including the throat, nose, and lungs. Common symptoms include:
- Chills
- High fever
- Exhaustion and extreme tiredness
- Shortness of breath
- Headaches
- Muscle and body aches
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems
Among these symptoms, muscle aches are a hallmark of the flu. These aches can occur in various parts of the body, including the lower back.
How To Treat Lower Back Pain Caused By Flu
To treat this lower back pain you have to treat its source which is the flu plaguing you. There are various methods to do so as well as to reduce the pain and they are as follows.
1. Over-the-Counter Medications
Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and relieve muscle aches, including lower back pain.
2. Keep Yourself Warm
To properly recover from the flu, you’ve got to keep yourself warm. Use a heating pad or take a warm bath to relax tense muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area.
3. Avoid Stressful Activities
Any activity that is stressful either mentally or physically can only worsen your condition. But this doesn’t mean you shouldn't be active. Be sure to get a lot of rest, while also focusing on light stretching to help relieve stiffness and improve flexibility in the lower back.
4. Use Cough Decongestants
The flu causes runny noses and inflammation of the bronchial tubes which will eventually lead to chest congestion and the best way to get rid of it is by using cough decongestants. These decongestants will loosen the structure of the mucus trapped in your chest, allowing you to expel it with a simple cough.
5. Drink a Lot of Fluids
Hydration is very important if you want your body to recover quickly. Whenever you catch the flu, it’s best for you to drink lots of fluids such as water and drinks rich in garlic as they help cool off the body and provide the necessary conditions for the cells to thrive.
Get Walk-In Flu Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Clark in Clark, NJ
Lower back pain can be an unexpected and uncomfortable symptom of the flu, often caused by muscle inflammation and dehydration. Fortunately, there are effective ways to manage this pain, and most cases resolve as you recover from the flu. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Clark for evaluation and treatment. Taking proactive steps can help you feel better faster and get back to your routine. Our urgent care center is open seven days a week and operates on a walk-in basis. No appointments required! We accept most health insurance plans and offer affordable self-pay rates. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact our medical team directly at (732) 301-5114.
