Pain

Physical discomfort ranging from mild to serious, usually caused by injury, illness or a nerve condition.

Self-care

Pain relievers available without a prescription, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), naproxen sodium (Aleve) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), may help. For injury pain, self-treatment also includes the R.I.C.E. approach — rest, ice, compression and elevation.

When to seek immediate medical care

Seek medical care immediately if there is pain with:

Trouble breathing or dizziness.
Extreme muscle weakness.
A high fever and stiff neck.
Inability to move the painful area.
A serious injury.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a health care professional if there is:

A known tick bite or a possible tick bite.
A rash, especially the "bull's-eye" rash of Lyme disease.
Muscle pain that happens with exercise and goes away with rest.
Signs of infection, such as persistent swelling or redness.
Muscle pain after a change in medicines, especially statins.
Muscle pain that doesn't improve with care at home.