Pain in the Calves & the Flu

Influenza, or the flu, is a common viral infection that may cause pain in the calves and several other symptoms. The flu is contagious and is easily spread from person to person.

Muscle Pain

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, muscle pain is a common symptom of the flu and may include pain in the calves and pain in other muscles throughout the body.

Other Symptoms

Influenza sufferers may experience fever, headaches and a dry cough. People with this disease may develop a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat or extreme tiredness.

Pain Relief

Individuals with pain in the calves or other muscle pain from a viral infection such as the flu may use over the counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Most flu patients recover from influenza after several days with plenty of fluids and rest.

Complications

Flu patients may develop complications such as ear infections, bacterial pneumonia or sinus infections. Patients with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, asthma or congestive heart failure may notice a worsening of these conditions if they also have influenza.

Spreading Flu

Patients with the flu can spread the disease through sneezing or coughing. A person may become infected with influenza if he touches his nose or mouth after he has touched a surface or object that has flu viruses on it.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Key Facts About Seasonal Influenza
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Symptom Relief