Why does my body ache?
Body aches can result from tiredness or exercise and commonly occur with infections such as the flu. But they can also be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as fibromylagia, arthritis, or lupus. While body aches are usually harmless, it is helpful to understand what causes them and when to seek medical attention.
Body aches can vary in intensity and frequency. A person may describe them as sharp, intermittent pains or a dull but persistent ache.
People can often identify and treat body aches without seeing a doctor. Sometimes, however, they may need medical help.
Signs and symptoms
If body aches are due to a medical condition, a person may experience other symptoms as well. Recognizing other signs can help a person identify the cause and decide whether they should see a doctor.
Some common symptoms that occur alongside body aches are:
Pain in a specific part of the body
Weakness
Fatigue
Shivers or changes in body temperature
Cold and flu-like symptoms
