What causes body aches and fatigue?

Jun 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
In general, body aches and fatigue may be caused by excessive exhaustion, lack of sleep, fibromyalgia, anemia, hypothyroidism, or other similar conditions. Symptomatic management usually involves general treatments and medication therapy. It is recommended to engage in mild exercises such as walking or yoga in daily life to promote metabolism, help relieve muscle tension, and thereby reduce physical discomfort.

Generally, body aches and fatigue may be caused by overexertion, lack of sleep, fibromyalgia, anemia, hypothyroidism, and other conditions. Symptomatic treatment such as general care or medication may be needed. If physical discomfort occurs, it is advisable to visit a hospital for diagnosis and treatment as early as possible. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Overexertion

Engaging in heavy physical labor or strenuous exercise for extended periods can lead to physical fatigue and lactic acid buildup in the muscles, causing body aches and fatigue. It is recommended to rest appropriately and soak feet in warm water to help muscles recover and alleviate fatigue and soreness.

2. Lack of Sleep

Long-term sleep deprivation or poor sleep quality can affect the body's metabolic and recovery processes, preventing muscles and the nervous system from adequately relaxing and recovering, thereby causing aching fatigue. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as lethargy and difficulty concentrating. It is recommended to maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a quiet and comfortable sleeping environment, and avoid using electronic devices before bedtime.

3. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that may be related to abnormal processing of pain signals by the central nervous system. Patients often experience widespread pain and tender points in multiple muscle areas, which may be accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, and memory decline. It is recommended to follow medical advice to use medications such as pregabalin capsules, tramadol sustained-release tablets, and amitriptyline tablets for treatment.

4. Anemia

Prolonged malnutrition leading to reduced hemoglobin levels can cause anemia. In anemic conditions, the number or quality of red blood cells is insufficient to provide adequate oxygen and nutrients to the body, leading to hypoxia and malnutrition in various body parts and causing aching fatigue. Symptoms may include weakness, dizziness, palpitations, and shortness of breath. It is recommended to follow medical advice to use medications such as Angelica Sinensis Blood-enriching Oral Liquid, ferrous fumarate tablets, and ferrous succinate tablets to alleviate symptoms.

5. Hypothyroidism

Autoimmune damage, excessive or insufficient iodine intake, and other factors can lead to hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism results in insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones, slowing down the body's metabolism and causing body aches, fatigue, and other symptoms, often accompanied by weight gain, constipation, and dry skin. It is recommended to follow medical advice to use medications such as sodium iodide tablets, levothyroxine sodium tablets, and thyroid extract tablets to alleviate symptoms.

It is also recommended to engage in gentle exercises such as walking and yoga in daily life to promote metabolism and help relieve muscle tension, thus reducing physical discomfort.