[43F] With persistent fatigue and musculoskeletal pain post-accident and COVID-19

Patient Description

A 43-year-old female presents with severe fatigue and widespread musculoskeletal pain, particularly in the shoulders, lower mid-back, and rib cage area. The symptoms have persisted for approximately two months. The patient reports a constant dull, achy pain akin to flu symptoms, rated as 9 out of 10 in severity, which is exacerbated by any activity and persists throughout the day. Sleep is disrupted due to discomfort, leading to exhaustion and difficulty concentrating. The patient has a history of a car accident, after which imaging revealed gray opacities in the left lower lobe and bulging at C5-C6. She also experienced COVID-19 prior to the accident. The patient vapes but denies other respiratory symptoms. The combination of these factors has significantly impacted her daily life, leading to feelings of being worn down and depressed.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms and history you've shared, several potential issues could be contributing to your condition:

  1. Post-Accident Musculoskeletal Pain: The car accident you experienced could have caused or exacerbated musculoskeletal injuries, such as bulging discs at C5-C6 and shoulder pain. These injuries can lead to persistent pain and discomfort, especially in the neck, shoulder, and back areas.

  2. Post-Viral Fatigue: Having had COVID-19 in the past, it's possible that you're experiencing post-viral fatigue, which is a common lingering effect. This can cause prolonged tiredness, muscle aches, and difficulty concentrating.

  3. Respiratory Concerns: The gray opacities in your lower lung lobe could indicate an underlying respiratory issue, which might contribute to your fatigue and overall feeling of being unwell. This could be related to past COVID-19 infection or other factors like vaping.

  4. Generalized Pain and Fatigue: The widespread body aches and fatigue could also be related to a condition like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, which are characterized by persistent pain and exhaustion.

What you can do

Musculoskeletal Pain:

  • Consider consulting a physical therapist or chiropractor for targeted exercises and treatments to alleviate neck and shoulder pain.
  • Over-the-counter pain relief, such as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), may help manage pain, but consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Fatigue and Exhaustion:

  • Prioritize rest and allow your body time to recover. Gradually increase activity levels as tolerated.
  • Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated to support overall health and energy levels.
  • Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share insights with your healthcare provider.

Respiratory Health:

  • Follow up with a healthcare provider regarding the gray opacities in your lung to determine if further investigation or treatment is needed.
  • Consider reducing or quitting vaping to improve lung health.

What you should look out for

  • Seek medical attention if you experience worsening pain, new or severe respiratory symptoms, or any other concerning changes in your health.
  • Be aware of signs of depression or anxiety, which can accompany chronic pain and fatigue, and seek support if needed.

Remember, while this advice is based on the information provided, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

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2 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of post-viral fatigue after COVID-19?

Common symptoms of post-viral fatigue after COVID-19 include prolonged tiredness, muscle aches, difficulty concentrating, and a general feeling of being unwell. These symptoms can persist for weeks or months after the initial infection.


How can musculoskeletal pain from a car accident be managed effectively?

Musculoskeletal pain from a car accident can be managed through physical therapy, chiropractic care, and exercises designed to strengthen and support the affected areas. Over-the-counter pain relief, such as NSAIDs, may also help, but it's important to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.


What are the potential causes of gray opacities in the lung?

Gray opacities in the lung can be caused by a variety of factors, including past infections like COVID-19, inflammation, or other underlying respiratory conditions. It's important to follow up with a healthcare provider for further investigation and appropriate management.


What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage symptoms of fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome include maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, prioritizing rest, gradually increasing physical activity, and managing stress through techniques like mindfulness or therapy. It's also important to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan.


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