Headache, body aches and fatigue

Viral illnesses such as Influenza and COVID-19 can present with headache, muscle aches and marked tiredness. Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, nausea or a change in smell may provide useful clues. Travel, insect exposure, unwell contacts and recent exertion also matter. Malaria, dengue fever and brucellosis need medical assessment when exposure or persistent fever makes them relevant. Fibromyalgia and Hypothyroidism can cause longer-lasting fatigue and aches, though a new acute headache still deserves its own assessment.

Rest in a cool, quiet place, drink fluids regularly and choose light meals if your appetite is low. Record when the symptoms began, whether fever is present, and any travel or medication changes. Follow local testing or isolation advice if you may have COVID-19. Use only medicines suitable for you and follow the label; avoid taking several products with the same pain-relieving ingredient.

Get urgent help for a sudden, unusually severe headache, confusion, fainting, a stiff neck with fever, new weakness, trouble speaking, breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting, or a widespread rash with feeling very unwell. Arrange a prompt medical review when symptoms worsen, fail to improve, keep returning, or follow travel to a malaria-risk area. A clinician may decide whether examination or testing is needed.

Ask: Could my symptoms fit an infection or another cause? Which warning signs should I watch for? Do my medicines, travel history, sleep, hydration or ongoing conditions change the assessment? Should I test for COVID-19 or have blood tests?