Have you ever wondered why your whole body hurts when you get a cold or the flu? For many people getting body aches is one of the first signs that they are ill. And it can take just as long to get over the aches and pains as it can to get over the cold or flu that causes them. There’s actually a very good reason why you get achy and sore when you get sick. It’s your body’s way of fighting off illness.

For same-day general illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Saddle Rock! Our medical providers are dedicated to providing the best care for all patients in the area. We are open seven days a week, so just walk-in at your convenience!

Why Your Body Aches When You’re Sick

When you get a cold or the flu or some other illness your immune system goes into high gear. It’s your immune system’s job to deal with the invading germs or bacteria that is making you sick and get it out. So your immune system triggers the release of histamine and white blood cells which will fight the invaders. But the toxic histamine that is deployed to kill anything harmful can cause an inflammatory response in your body which can cause your soft tissue and muscles to be sore.

How To Relieve Body Aches

If you’re suffering from severe aches and pains while you’re sick there are some home remedies that you can use to relieve some of the pain until you get over the cold or flu like:

Topical Pain Relievers

Topical pain relieving creams and patches can provide a lot of relieve for aches and pains. There are many different types of pain relieving creams that use ingredients like capsaicin and lidocaine to provide relief. These creams come in regular creams, patches, roll-ons, and other applications so there’s bound to be one that will suit your needs. They’re also available at any drugstore or big box store.

Heat And Cold Therapy

Heat and cold therapy can also provide some relief of muscle aches and pain. Using a cold pack will increase blood flow which can relieve pain and improve circulation. And heat therapy can relax sore muscles and soothe aches and pains.

Rest

Rest is absolutely necessary when you’re sick. It will boost your immune system and give you the strength to fight off illness and it can help alleviate the aches and pains the come with being sick. Take some time off and take a nap or two.

When To Seek Medical Care

Your aches and pains should start to go away as you get better. But if your pain is getting worse, or if the pain that you are having is more of a sharp intense pain rather than a dull ache then you should have a doctor check you out to make sure you don’t have an infection or an injury. The dedicated medical providers and staff at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Saddle Rock want to help you get healthy and enjoy spring. We are open seven days a week and always accept walk-in patients. If you have any additional questions about general illness treatment, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 529-3300.