Diarrhea, chills, body aches and fatigue without vomiting

A stomach infection can irritate the bowel and cause loose stools, tiredness and aching. Respiratory infections such as Influenza or COVID-19 may also include diarrhea alongside feverish chills and muscle aches. Travel, unpasteurised dairy or animal exposure can be relevant when considering Brucellosis, while mosquito exposure and fever may raise concern for Dengue Fever or Malaria. Persistent widespread pain with fatigue has a different pattern and may be assessed in relation to Fibromyalgia or Hypothyroidism. These symptoms overlap, so the timing, exposures, temperature and hydration status matter more than any single symptom.

Take frequent small drinks of water or an oral rehydration solution. Choose simple foods when hungry, such as rice, toast, soup or bananas, and avoid alcohol and foods that clearly worsen the diarrhea. Rest, wash hands carefully and avoid preparing food for other people while stools remain loose. Record when symptoms began, how often you pass stool, your temperature, recent travel, food exposures and any new medicines. A clinician can use this history to decide whether an examination or testing is needed.

Seek urgent help for fainting, confusion, severe weakness, trouble breathing, severe or worsening abdominal pain, blood or black stool, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange prompt medical assessment if urine becomes very reduced or dark, fever is persistent, diarrhea continues, or you have a weakened immune system, are pregnant, or are caring for a young child or older adult. Chills after travel to a malaria-risk area deserve same-day advice, especially with fever.

Could this be an infection linked to a recent meal, trip or contact? How can I judge whether I am becoming dehydrated? Do my fever, medicines or medical conditions change which treatments are suitable? Should I be tested for a travel-related illness?