What are Common Causes of a Fever and Joint Pain?

There are several possible common causes of a fever accompanied by joint pain. It is not unusual for illnesses such as the flu, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile arthritis, and chronic fatigue syndrome to cause both fever and joint pain. Each these illnesses has its own set of symptoms, and it's important to seek the advice of a trained medical professional when faced with fever and joint pain. Treating the symptoms correctly will depend on the common cause creating the situation.

The most commonly reported cause of fever and joint pain is the common, everyday flu. Influenza is characterized by shortness of breath, tender lymph nodes, as well as the telltale fever and joint pain. This illness is highly contagious and is most dangerous for very young people and the elderly, though people with suppressed immune systems are also at risk. The flu is a virus that attacks the nose, throat, and respiratory system, creating a hacking cough and, often, extreme fatigue for the affected person. The flu is usually treated at home with plenty of fluids, rest, and the use of over-the-counter fever and pain relievers to provide comfort to the patient during healing.

Another common cause of fever and joint pain is rheumatoid and juvenile arthritis. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, this long-term disease is often characterized by deformities in the toes and knees in its later stages, along with joint pain in various other parts of the body specific to each sufferer. The soft tissues surrounding the affected joints are usually inflamed and painful. With arthritis in children, the symptoms typically include stiff knees, inflamed joints, and a feeling of warmth in the affected areas. Other than simple growing pains, arthritis is a common cause of joint pain in children.

For people suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome, fever and joint pain are common. This little understood disease usually manifests with symptoms of an inability to concentrate, problems with a decreased libido, and unexplained pain throughout the body, along with a fever and the characteristic swelling and pain of the joints. This condition is usually prolonged and may affect the person at different intervals during his or her lifetime. Medications for depression and anxiety, and those intended to reduce inflammation are often used to try to control or eliminate the symptoms of this disease. Some medical professionals also suggest alternative relaxation techniques to further reduce the effects of joint pain and fatigue.