What should you know about persistent body aches?

Aches may come from muscle strain, an infection, inflammation, poor sleep or a medicine effect. Influenza and COVID-19 can present with widespread aches during an acute illness; Long COVID can involve symptoms that continue after infection. Fibromyalgia can cause widespread pain with fatigue and unrefreshing sleep. Hypothyroidism may be associated with aches, stiffness, cold sensitivity and low energy. Travel, animal exposure and fever can point towards infections such as dengue fever, malaria or brucellosis. Body aches alone do not identify a cause.

Note where the aches occur, when they began, whether joints or muscles feel affected, and any fever, rash, weakness, swelling, recent travel, insect bites or sick contacts. Gentle movement, rest, fluids and comfortable warmth may help if you are otherwise well. Use pain medicines only as directed and check with a pharmacist if you have kidney, liver, stomach or other health problems. Arrange a review if pain persists, returns repeatedly or limits walking, work or sleep.

Seek urgent assessment for severe weakness, confusion, breathing difficulty, a stiff neck, a new widespread rash, a very high fever, dark urine, marked swelling, or inability to move a limb. After travel to a malaria area, fever with chills or aches warrants prompt medical advice. Sudden one-sided weakness or trouble speaking is an emergency.

Ask what examinations or tests fit your symptoms, whether medicines or thyroid function could contribute, and how activity should be adjusted. Mention travel, exposures, recent infections and every medicine or supplement you take.