Rhabdomyolysis and COVID: what to know

Rhabdomyolysis is muscle breakdown that releases muscle contents into the blood. A viral illness may contribute to muscle inflammation or injury, while fever, reduced fluid intake, prolonged bed rest and strenuous activity during recovery can add stress. Ordinary viral aches are usually more general; severe focal muscle pain, pronounced weakness, swelling or reduced urination are more concerning features.

Rest, avoid intense exercise and contact a clinician if marked muscle symptoms occur during or after COVID. Tell the clinician about fever, vomiting, fluid intake, recent exercise, falls, medicines and supplements. Assessment may include blood tests for muscle injury and kidney function, electrolyte testing and urine analysis. Do not restart hard training until a clinician says it is appropriate.

Get urgent medical care for severe muscle pain, rapidly increasing weakness, tight swelling, very little urine, fainting, confusion, chest symptoms or difficulty breathing. COVID symptoms can also worsen independently, so new breathing difficulty, bluish lips or inability to stay awake require emergency attention. Seek help promptly rather than waiting for urine to become dark.

Ask whether your symptoms fit muscle breakdown or ordinary viral aches, which blood and urine tests are needed, how to maintain fluids safely, and when gentle activity can resume. Provide a complete list of medicines, including recently started or stopped treatments.