Discomfort in Neck, Shoulders, and Back
Hello, I'm an 18-year-old male. For nearly two weeks, I've been experiencing persistent discomfort in my neck, shoulders, and back. It all began with pain in my legs, particularly around my knees, which made it hard to sit comfortably. Although that discomfort subsided, I've now found myself struggling with these new aches. I visited the emergency room just two days ago, and the medical staff suggested that my illness was a result of air conditioning exposure, which makes sense to some extent but doesn't entirely add up. My body temperature fluctuates between 37°C and 37.5°C, occasionally dropping to 36.5°C, but only when I start to feel a little better. I'm curious about what might be causing these symptoms and why recovery is taking this long!
Answers (1)
8/18/2025, 11:11:33 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing a combination of discomfort in your neck, shoulders, and back after an initial issue with your legs. Given the timeline and your description, there could be several factors at play, such as muscle strain, poor posture, or even tension related to stress or prolonged sitting, especially if you've been spending a lot of time in air-conditioned environments.
Explanation
Muscle tension and discomfort in those areas can often occur when the body is exposed to cold environments like air conditioning, particularly if you were sitting still for long periods. Additionally, changes in your body's temperature can indicate underlying inflammation or infection, but since you've been evaluated in the emergency room, it's less likely that it's something severe right now.
Your symptoms might be related to:
- Muscle Strain: This could be from activity, posture, or sleeping position.
- Tension or Stress: Emotional or mental stress can lead to physical tension, especially in the upper body.
- Postural Issues: Sitting improperly or for prolonged periods can result in aches, especially if you're using screens often.
Next Steps
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Posture Check: Make sure your workspace or sitting arrangement is ergonomically friendly—your screen should be at eye level, and your back should be supported.
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Gentle Stretching and Movement: Incorporate gentle neck and shoulder stretches throughout the day to relieve tension. Simple exercises like shoulder rolls and neck tilts can help.
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Heat Therapy: Applying heat to your neck and shoulders (such as a warm compress or a heating pad) can promote blood flow and reduce discomfort.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you're drinking enough fluids and eating a balanced diet to support recovery. Dehydration can worsen muscle cramps and discomfort.
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Rest and Recovery: Prioritize getting enough sleep and avoid overexerting yourself with physical activity until you feel better.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your temperature and any changes in your symptoms. If you notice a significant increase in pain or new symptoms like numbness or severe headaches, it may require further evaluation.
If your symptoms persist beyond another week or worsen, it would be advisable to seek further evaluation. Let me know if you have any questions or need more specific guidance!
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