Body aches and thyroid problems: what to know

Hypothyroidism can slow body processes and may be associated with tiredness, feeling cold, dry skin, constipation, weight changes, muscle cramps or aching and slower thinking. Symptoms often develop gradually, so they may be easy to attribute to stress, poor sleep or getting older. An overactive thyroid more often causes heat intolerance, tremor, palpitations and muscle weakness than general aching.

Viral infections such as influenza or COVID-19, fibromyalgia and several travel-related infections can also cause body aches. Long COVID may leave ongoing fatigue and pain after an earlier infection. A blood test that checks thyroid function is usually considered alongside your history and examination.

Note when the aches began, which muscles are affected and whether you also have cold intolerance, bowel changes, skin changes, weakness or sleep disruption. Keep gently active within your limits, take breaks and maintain regular fluids and meals. Avoid starting thyroid medicine or high-dose supplements without medical advice, because the wrong treatment can worsen symptoms or obscure the diagnosis.

Book a routine appointment if aches continue, recur or occur with several features of altered thyroid function. Bring a list of medicines and supplements, including products bought without a prescription.

Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, fainting, new confusion, profound weakness, or muscle pain with very dark urine. Get prompt assessment for a high fever after travel, a rapidly worsening illness, or new neurological symptoms. Sudden palpitations with dizziness also need timely medical attention.

Could thyroid function explain my aches and tiredness? Which blood tests are appropriate? Could my medicines, sleep or activity level contribute? What symptoms would suggest an infection or another muscle condition? When should the results be reviewed?