The flu and the common cold are diseases that cause many discomforts in our bodies. A common symptom that accompanies these diseases is the sensation of cold legs.

At first sight, it might seem that it is the consequence of the low temperatures that usually accompany these illnesses. However, there are other explanations that we will analyze in this article.

What is the flu and the common cold?

The flu and the common cold are two respiratory diseases that can affect people of all ages. They are caused by viruses, and, even though they share some symptoms, their effects on the body are different.

The common cold is a mild respiratory illness that affects the nose and the throat. It is characterized by symptoms like sneezing, stuffy nose, runny nose, sore throat, and cough.

The common cold usually lasts for a week and is not considered a severe disease.

The flu, on the other hand, is a more severe respiratory illness. It can cause symptoms like fever, body aches, cough, sore throat, headache, and fatigue.

The flu usually lasts for two weeks, but it can leave long-lasting effects on the body, especially in older people or people with weakened immune systems.

Why cold legs accompany the flu and the common cold?

One of the most common sensations that people with the flu or the common cold experience is cold legs. It is not a mere coincidence, as there are various reasons why this happens:.

Vasoconstriction

When we get sick, our body activates its defense mechanisms to fight the virus. One way it does it is by constricting blood vessels, especially those located in the extremities, like the legs.

This vasoconstriction is a way to conserve heat and energy and redirect them to the vital organs that are fighting the disease. As a result, less blood flows to the legs, and they feel colder.

Low fever

When we have the flu or the common cold, our body fights the virus by raising the body temperature. This rise in temperature is what causes fever, one of the most common symptoms of these diseases.

While the fever serves to weaken the virus, it also lowers the peripheral blood flow, reducing the heat that reaches the skin. As a result, the legs feel colder.

Inactivity

When we get sick, we tend to reduce our physical activity, usually staying in bed or sitting on a couch. This inactivity may lead to poor blood circulation, especially in the legs, as blood tends to pool in the lower parts of the body.

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As a result, the legs may feel colder.

Dehydration

The flu and the common cold cause our body to lose many fluids due to sweating, mucus production, and fever. This loss of fluids may dehydrate us, leading to thicker blood that flows more slowly.

This slower blood flow may cause the legs to feel colder, as they receive less warmth from the blood.

Medications

Some medications that we take to alleviate the symptoms of the flu or the common cold may have side effects that cause cold extremities, including the legs.

For example, decongestants or antihistamines may reduce blood flow to the legs, causing the sensation of coldness.

How to alleviate the sensation of cold legs

While it is a common symptom, the sensation of cold legs can be uncomfortable and may affect our sleep or daily activities. Here are some tips that can help alleviate this sensation:.

Stay warm

One way to counteract the vasoconstriction that happens when we get sick is to keep warm. Dress in layers, cover your legs with blankets, and use a heating pad to warm them up. Drinking warm beverages like tea or soup may also help.

Stay hydrated

The flu and the common cold may cause dehydration, so it is essential to drink plenty of fluids. Water, tea, and soup are excellent sources of hydration. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, as they may dehydrate you further.

Move around

If you can, avoid staying in bed or sitting for extended periods. Move around, do some stretching, or take a walk. This will improve the blood flow and prevent blood from pooling in the legs.

Take breaks

If you must sit for long periods, like when working, take breaks regularly. Get up, stretch, and walk around for a bit. This will help prevent blood from pooling in the legs and keep them warm.

Avoid medications with cold-inducing side effects

If you find that one of the medications you are taking is causing your legs to feel cold, talk to your doctor. They may suggest an alternative medication with fewer side effects.

Conclusion

The sensation of cold legs when we have the flu or the common cold is a common symptom that is caused by various factors, including vasoconstriction, low fever, inactivity, dehydration, and some medications.

Understanding the reasons why it happens can help us alleviate the sensation and make our recovery more comfortable.