Viral Causes for Joint & Muscle Pain

Viruses can cause a constellation of symptoms, some of which may include joint and muscle pain. Many different viruses are known to cause either joint pain, muscle pain or a combination of the two.

Types

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, viruses including influenza, parvovirus, enterovirus and HIV can cause joint pain as a symptom. Viruses known to cause muscular pain include swine flu (H1N1), mononucleosis and the common cold.

Symptom Identification

Symptoms typical of viral infection include fatigue, respiratory problems, gastrointestinal symptoms and muscle and joint pain. Unfortunately, these symptoms may also result from other causes such as bacterial or fungal infection, making it difficult to pinpoint the true underlying cause.

Complications

Common complications of viral infections include dehydration due to vomiting or diarrhea, pneumonia and bacterial superinfection like bronchitis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Relationship

Viruses like herpes-zoster (shingles virus) cause pain by infiltrating nerves and causing inflammation, while the Epstein-Barr virus has been implicated in some cases of rheumatoid arthritis---an autoimmune disease that causes joint pain and inflammation---according to the National Institutes of Health.

Warning

Rarely, muscle and joint pain may signal a more serious condition. If you experience sudden pain accompanied by skin rash, joint swelling or high fever, seek immediate medical attention.

References

• American Academy of Family Physicians: Diagnostic Approach to Polyarticular Joint Pain
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Shingles and chickenpox (Varicella-zoster virus) -- Complications
• National Institutes of Health: Epstein-Barr virus infection and autoimmunity in rheumatoid arthritis

Resources

• MedicineNet.com: Shingles (Herpes Zoster)