Body aches, sore throat and fatigue: what to know

Influenza and COVID-19 can present with body aches, throat discomfort and marked tiredness. A common cold may cause milder aches, while glandular fever can cause prolonged fatigue and swollen glands. Strep throat and tonsillitis can also cause throat pain, fever and aches, especially when swallowing is difficult. Allergic rhinitis and acid reflux may irritate the throat, although they do not usually explain strong whole-body aches.

Symptoms alone cannot identify the cause. A clinician may consider your fever, cough, nasal symptoms, exposure history, hydration and examination findings.

Rest, drink fluids regularly and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Warm drinks, salt-water gargles and avoiding smoke can soothe an irritated throat. Check medicine labels before using a pain reliever, because combination cold products may contain the same ingredient. Stay home while you feel unwell and follow local advice about testing or reducing contact with others.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are worsening, are not settling, or fatigue is interfering with ordinary activities. A clinician can decide whether testing or a throat examination is useful.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow fluids, drooling, confusion, severe weakness, chest pain or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. Get prompt assessment for a rapidly worsening sore throat, a muffled voice, or swelling that makes opening the mouth difficult. People who are pregnant, immunocompromised, very young or older may need earlier advice when infection symptoms are significant.

Could these symptoms fit influenza, COVID-19, strep throat or another infection? Do I need a throat swab or other test? Which symptom medicines are suitable with my current conditions and medicines? How long should I rest at home, and what change should prompt reassessment?