Muscle Pain (Myalgia)

Muscle pain, or myalgia, can affect a single muscle or multiple muscle groups. It may range from mild soreness after exercise to severe, persistent pain caused by systemic illness. Muscle pain can be acute or chronic and may be associated with stiffness, weakness, or fatigue.

• Common causes: Overuse, tension, minor injuries, strenuous exercise.
• Medical conditions: Fibromyalgia, infections (flu, COVID-19, Lyme disease), autoimmune diseases (lupus, polymyositis), metabolic disorders (thyroid imbalance).
• Medications: Statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs), certain antivirals or antibiotics.
• Other contributors: Stress, dehydration, poor sleep.
• Risk factors: Sedentary lifestyle, obesity, underlying chronic illness, family history of autoimmune conditions, new medications.

See a doctor if muscle pain is severe, unexplained, or persistent beyond a few days, or if it is accompanied by weakness, swelling, fever, rash, or dark urine (possible muscle breakdown). Immediate care is needed if muscle pain develops suddenly with chest pain, breathing problems, or paralysis.