What Causes Chills, Sore Muscles And Joints, Fatigue And Neck Pain?
Likely viral illness as you stated.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Chills, headache, fatigue, muscle, and joint pain are usually associated with a viral infection.
The flu is only one type of viral illness but it would normally be associated with symptoms such as sore throat, congestion, coughing, etc.
In some cases, the general symptoms (those you are experiencing) start first and the symptoms that pinpoint the type of infection, start later.
Viruses affecting the stomach and intestines can start the same way but would eventually also have stomach/intestine related symptoms.
Treatment is usually symptomatic, this means treating the symptoms that are present not the specific infection itself.
This would consist of rest, fluids, paracetamol and/or ibuprofen (once you do not live in the area with mosquito-borne illnesses).
If you live in an area with mosquito-borne illnesses then would need to think about infections like dengue (another viral infection), ibuprofen cannot be used in this type of infection because of the risk of bleeding.
If you do not live in any such area, then ibuprofen or other similar meds can be used to help with your symptoms.
Hope I have answered your query.
Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James, General & Family Physician