Body aches (myalgia) and chills are common symptoms often signaling that the immune system is actively fighting an underlying issue, frequently an infection. Aches result from inflammatory molecules released by the immune system, causing widespread muscle and joint discomfort. Chills are the body’s method of raising its core temperature through rapid muscle contraction, which generates heat and presents as shivering. This article focuses on symptomatic relief, including non-drug comfort measures, safe use of over-the-counter medications, and recognizing when medical attention is necessary.
Immediate Non-Drug Relief Strategies
Physical rest is a primary treatment, allowing the body to redirect its energy reserves toward the immune response and tissue repair. When the body is fighting an infection, its energy demands increase significantly, making sufficient sleep and minimizing exertion an important self-care measure. This period of reduced activity helps to limit the production of inflammatory chemicals that contribute to the feeling of widespread muscle soreness.
Hydration is also a crucial factor, especially when chills are accompanied by a fever, which increases fluid loss through sweating and rapid breathing. Dehydration can intensify the feeling of body aches and weakness. Consuming plenty of fluids like water, clear broths, and electrolyte solutions helps replenish lost minerals and maintain fluid balance, supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
Managing body temperature requires a balanced approach to address both the feeling of chills and the subsequent fever. When experiencing chills, using light layers or a single blanket provides comfort without excessively trapping heat. Once the fever sets in, avoiding heavy blankets and wearing light clothing helps the body dissipate heat more effectively. Lukewarm sponging can also aid in gently lowering an elevated temperature, but very cold water should be avoided to prevent triggering more shivering.
Over-the-Counter Pharmacological Options
Over-the-counter medications offer effective relief by targeting the pain and fever associated with body aches and chills.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) primarily works as a pain reliever and fever reducer by acting on the central nervous system to raise the pain threshold and target the brain’s heat-regulating center. It does not possess significant anti-inflammatory properties.
Safety with acetaminophen is paramount due to its potential for liver damage, especially when exceeding recommended dosages. For adults, the maximum dose is generally 4,000 milligrams (mg) in a 24-hour period, though some experts recommend a lower limit of 3,000 mg. It is important to check the labels of combination cold and flu products, as many already contain acetaminophen. Accidentally taking a stand-alone pill along with a multi-symptom remedy can quickly lead to a dangerous overdose.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), offer a dual benefit by reducing pain and fever while also directly targeting inflammation. These drugs work by inhibiting compounds that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. Their anti-inflammatory action is particularly helpful for muscle and joint aches caused by the immune response.
NSAIDs carry specific warnings concerning the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. They can irritate the stomach lining, increasing the risk of stomach bleeding, and may also pose risks for individuals with heart or kidney conditions. Naproxen has a longer duration of action, typically requiring dosing every 8 to 12 hours, while ibuprofen is generally taken every 4 to 6 hours. Anyone with a history of stomach ulcers, kidney disease, or those taking blood thinners should consult a healthcare provider before using NSAIDs.
Recognizing Symptoms That Require Medical Attention
While most cases of body aches and chills resolve with home treatment, certain “red flag” symptoms indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. A persistent high fever is a primary concern, specifically a temperature exceeding 103°F in adults, or a fever that lasts for more than three days despite home care and medication. A prolonged low-grade fever that does not improve after 72 hours can also signal a more serious or complex underlying infection.
The presence of severe, localized symptoms alongside body aches and chills warrants immediate attention:
- Stiff neck, a sudden and severe headache, unexplained rash, or chest pain.
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, which may suggest a lower respiratory tract infection like pneumonia.
- Changes in mental status, such as confusion, extreme lethargy, or difficulty waking up.
Persistent symptoms that worsen after several days of self-treatment suggest the body is struggling to overcome the illness and professional diagnosis is needed. Individuals who are elderly, have chronic medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease, or are immunocompromised should seek medical advice sooner, as they are at higher risk for complications from infections.