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Myalgia

Definition

• Myalgia is muscle pain. The term is derived from the Greek words "myos" (muscle) and "algos" (pain).

  Myalgia can occur in an isolated muscle or in multiple muscles across the body. The condition can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). There are a number of possible causes (see below).

• Myalgic is the adjective form of myalgia.

Additional Info

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Myalgia may be the result of overuse or injury of muscles or as a symptom of the following conditions: Stress. Autoimmune disorders (e.g. Polymyositis, dermatomyositis, lupus, etc). Viral infections. Electrolyte imbalances (e.g. too much potassium or too little calcium). See also diuretic. Drugs (e.g. amphotericin B, carbinoxolone, chloroquine, clofibrate, corticosteroids, hydroxychloroquine, cocaine, statins for lowering cholesterol, ACE inhibitors for lowering blood pressure, etc.). Generalized infections (e.g. influenza, malaria, polio, measles, etc)

Treatment for myalgia may be available and varies depending on its cause. Rest, ibuprofen, stretching and massage may be helpful. If the pain is severe or persists for more than 36 hours, see a doctor. Also call a doctor if the pain may be associated with a change in medicine, tick bite, or visible sign of infection or rash. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have the following conditions associated with myalgia:
• Sudden weight gain.
• Water retention.
• Less urination than usual.
• Shortness of breath.
• Trouble swallowing.
• Muscle weakness or paralysis of any muscle.
• Vomiting.
• Very stiff neck.
• High fever.

Myalgia due to muscle overuse or injury may be prevented by:

• Warming up before exercise.
• Cooling down after exercise
• Drinking lots of fluids
• Frequent stretching, especially before and after exercise

MSDS Relevance Myalgia and associated conditions may be caused by exposure to certain chemicals. For example, ingestion of L-tryptophan (5-HTP), which can be found in some foods and dietary supplements, is thought to cause Eosinophilia Myalgia Syndrome (see Further Reading below). Always read your MSDS before working with a new chemical so you will be aware of any possible symptoms of exposure. Further Reading Muscle Aches at the NIH's MedLine Plus. Definition of Myalgia at MedicineNet.com. Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome and L-Tryptophan-Containing Products, a report in the US CDC's Weekly Morbidity and Mortality Report. See also: atrophy.

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Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.