Ways Of Alleviating Muscle Pain Symptoms

By Dorthy Swanson


Another name given to muscle pain is myalgia. This is pain that is occurring in the muscles. These kinds of pains are very common and almost everybody experiences them a few times in their lives. Almost every part of the body is composed of muscles, which makes these pains to be capable of appearing in almost everywhere. Muscle pain symptoms vary depending on where n the body they are occurring.

In most cases, people who are having myalgia can always pinpoint its cause. The reason for this is that myalgia is almost always caused by three factors, that is, excessive physical activity, stress, or tension. Muscle tension may occur in one or multiple places in the body. Overuse of muscles during physical activity may lead to aching later. Another common cause is injury.

Stress, tension, and physical activity are not responsible for all cases of myalgia. Myalgia may sometimes be caused by medical reasons. Some of these medical causes include infections, use of given drugs and/or medications, hypokalemia, fibromyalgia, autoimmune disorder, and thyroid problems. Low body potassium content results in hypokalemia. Cocaine, statins, and ACE inhibitors are among the major drugs and medications that may cause this problem.

Myalgia is also caused by certain infections. Major infections include bacterial infections, flu, and polio. Some of the autoimmune disorders that are associated with myalgia are polymyositis, lupus, and derematomyositis. Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism both cause myalgia too. The length of time the ache remains is dependent on the cause. In most cases, it will take a few days to disappear while in others, it may take months. It is highly advisable to see a doctor for pains that last more than just a few days.

In case this problem starts when one is at home, there are certain home remedies that can be used to ease the pain. The pains often respond well to these remedies in most cases. First, one should try to rest the area where the aching is being felt. This can be done by lying down or sitting. Secondly, one can take over-the-counter pain medication such as paracetamol and ibuprofen. Inflammation and aching can also be reduced by applying ice on the affected area.

One can stretch the muscle that is aching to ease discomfort. Rubbing gently with an ointment may also help. As long as the problem persists, one should not engage in any high-impact activities such as lifting weights or similar objects. Yoga and meditation can also ease stress.

One should seek medical help if home remedies do not work after a few days. Persistent myalgia is often an indication of an underlying health condition. If the strategies applied above remain ineffective after some days, it is time to seek medical help.

Additionally, one should consult a doctor if there does not seem to be any apparent cause for the aching. If myalgia comes with a rash, elevated body temperature, redness, or swelling of the area, one should seek professional help. Myalgia becomes a medical emergency if results in difficulty swallowing or breathing, immobility in the affected area, or weakness.




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