Joint aches and fatigue can be caused by a variety of common health related conditions. According to Mayoclinic.com, joint aches and fatigue can be caused by chronic fatigue syndrome. Other possible causes of joint aches and fatigue include fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis. If joint aches become worse or make movement increasingly difficult, contact a health-care provider.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that leaves an individual feeling weak and tired even though he may have gotten plenty of rest. According to Mayoclinic.com, symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome include aching joints, unexplained fatigue and headaches. Someone individuals can also experience bloating, chest pain, chronic coughing or diarrhea. The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown but it is believed to be due to a reaction by the immune system or a viral infection. It is common for those diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome to have other health related conditions present such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is an illness that causes tenderness, pain and aching in the joints and muscles. According to Medline Plus, fibromyalgia is commonly diagnosed in middle-aged women, but anyone can develop this condition. Aside from joint pain and fatigue, other common symptoms of fibromyalgia include trouble sleeping, joint and muscle stiffness and headaches. Some people report problems with thinking or memory. This is known as "fibro fog." People diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus; those who have a family history of fibromyalgia; or have a sleeping disorder have a higher risk for developing fibromyalgia. There is no cure for fibromyalgia so treatment is focused on lessening the severity and frequency of symptoms.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that affects the joints causing pain and stiffness, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The cause of the pain is due to the body's immune system mistaking its own tissue for a foreign invader. Typically this attack tends to focus on the smaller joints in the hands and feet and will eventually affect larger joints in the knees, shoulders and hips. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include fatigue, red puffy hands and fever. Other symptoms reported include weight loss and the presence of firm lumps of tissue underneath the skin of the arms. There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis so treatment efforts are focused on controlling symptoms and preventing further damage to affected joints.
