What should you know about whole body aches?

Muscles may ache when the immune system is responding to an illness, after unfamiliar physical activity, or when sleep and recovery have been poor. Influenza and COVID-19 can present with muscle aches alongside fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue or headache. Dengue fever, malaria and brucellosis can also include body aches, particularly when there is fever or a relevant travel, food or animal-exposure history.

Ongoing pain without a clear infection may need a different assessment. Fibromyalgia can include widespread pain, fatigue and non-restorative sleep. Hypothyroidism can include tiredness, feeling cold, constipation or skin and hair changes. The same symptom can occur in many conditions, so it should not be used to self-diagnose one of them.

Rest from strenuous activity, drink fluids if safe for you, eat regular meals and use gentle movement as tolerated. A warm shower, comfortable position and regular sleep routine may ease muscular discomfort. If considering a pain medicine, check the label and ask a pharmacist or clinician about safe use with your health conditions and other medicines.

Record when the aches began, where they are most intense, recent exercise, fever, rashes, cough, stomach symptoms, travel and possible insect, animal or unpasteurised-food exposure. These details can make a medical assessment more focused.

Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, fainting, a stiff neck with fever, new weakness, a rapidly spreading rash, severe dehydration or severe pain after an injury. Get medical advice promptly if body aches occur with persistent fever, repeated vomiting, a rash, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or if symptoms are worsening rather than settling. People who are pregnant, immunocompromised or living with serious long-term conditions should seek earlier advice when unwell.

Ask what features point toward infection, inflammation, a hormonal issue or another cause, and whether you need an examination or blood tests. Bring a list of recent medicines and supplements, as well as any international travel or animal contact.