Feeling off? Here’s what malaise really means and how to beat it.

What is malaise and what causes it?

Malaise is a general feeling of discomfort, illness, or unease that can be hard to pinpoint. Unlike a specific symptom like a headache or sore throat, malaise is more of an overall sense that something isn’t quite right.

Common causes of malaise include:

• Infections. Viral or bacterial infections, such as the flu or COVID-19, can cause malaise, especially during the early stages of illness. 
• Chronic conditions. Conditions like anemia, diabetes, or thyroid disorders often cause a persistent sense of tiredness and discomfort. 
• Mental health. Feeling malaise can also be linked to stress, depression, or anxiety, making it hard to pinpoint if the cause is physical or emotional.
• Medications. Certain medications or treatments, such as chemotherapy or antibiotics, can leave you feeling out of sorts.

Common symptoms of malaise: How to recognize the signs.

Malaise is tricky because it doesn’t always come with clear symptoms. Instead, it’s a vague feeling of being unwell.

But there are a few common signs that you may experience:

• Fatigue. Feeling exhausted or tired even after a full night’s sleep. 
• Lack of motivation. Not wanting to engage in activities you usually enjoy.
• Body aches. A general feeling of stiffness or soreness without an apparent cause.
• Irritability. Feeling more agitated or easily upset than usual.
• Loss of appetite. Feeling nauseous or not interested in eating.

If these symptoms continue or worsen, it could be a sign that something more is going on beneath the surface.

When to see a doctor if malaise won’t go away.

Malaise can sometimes pass on its own, especially if it's linked to something temporary like a cold or stress. However, if you’ve been feeling "off" for a while and can’t shake it, talking to a healthcare provider is important.

You should consider visiting a doctor if:

• Malaise lasts for more than a week without improvement.
• You have other unexplained symptoms, such as fever, weight loss, or persistent pain.
• You’ve been feeling mentally unwell, experiencing depression, or heightened anxiety.
• You’re dealing with an ongoing chronic condition and feeling worse than usual.

If you're concerned about how you're feeling, CityMD can help. Visit your nearest location for a quick evaluation and guidance on managing your symptoms. We’re here to help you feel like yourself again!

Visit CityMD.

Malaise is your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right—even if the cause isn’t immediately obvious. If you’ve been feeling off for a while, it might be time to get checked out by a professional.

Visit CityMD for a walk-in appointment and get back on the path to feeling better.