Body aches all over: what to know

A viral illness may cause aching with fever, tiredness, sore throat, cough or digestive symptoms. Influenza and COVID-19 are examples. Recent travel or insect exposure makes illnesses such as Malaria or Dengue Fever relevant to discuss with a clinician; Brucellosis is another possibility after certain animal or unpasteurised dairy exposures. Pain that lasts or returns without a clear illness may occur with Fibromyalgia, Hypothyroidism or Long COVID. The location, timing, stiffness, weakness and accompanying symptoms help distinguish muscle soreness from joint or nerve pain.

Reduce demanding activity, but gentle movement can help prevent stiffness when it does not worsen pain. Rest, drink regularly and eat normally if you are able. Check your temperature and note rashes, swelling, weakness, numbness, recent exertion, travel and new medicines. A pharmacist can advise on a suitable pain reliever, especially if you have kidney, liver or stomach problems, are pregnant or take regular medicines. Do not combine products containing the same ingredient.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing, chest pressure, fainting, confusion, new severe weakness, one-sided symptoms, a stiff neck, a rapidly spreading rash or severe pain after an injury. Seek prompt advice for high fever with marked illness, dark urine, reduced urine, swollen joints, or aches that are worsening or not settling. A clinician may need to examine you and review medicines, travel and infection exposures.

Ask which causes fit the pattern of your pain, whether you need an examination or tests, how to stay active safely, and which warning signs require urgent review.