MalaiseDefinition: Malaise is a generalized feeling of discomfort, illness, or lack of well-being that can be associated with a disease state. It can be accompanied by a sensation of exhaustion or inadequate energy to accomplish usual activities.
Alternative Names: General ill feeling
Considerations: Malaise is a nonspecific symptom that can occur with almost any significant infectious, metabolic (endocrine), or systemic disorder. The onset may be slow or rapid depending on the nature of the disease. Fatigue accompanies malaise in many common diseases.
Common Causes: The following lists give examples of the diseases and conditions that can cause malaise. ACUTE INFECTIOUS DISEASE CHRONIC INFECTIOUS DISEASE CARDIOPULMONARY ORGAN FAILURE CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISEASE ENDOCRINE or METABOLIC NEOPLASTIC BLOOD DISORDERS
Home Care: Significant symptoms require prompt attention from your medical provider
Call your health care provider if: - Malaise is accompanied by other symptoms indicating a significant illness.
- Malaise persists longer than one week, with or without other symptoms.
What to expect at your health care provider's office: Your health care provider will perform a physical examination and ask questions such as: - How long has it lasted (weeks or months)?
- What other symptoms do you have?
- Is the malaise constant or episodic?
- Can you complete your daily activities? If not what limits you?
- Have you recently traveled?
- What medications are you on?
- What are your other medical problems?
- Do you use alcohol or other drugs?
If signs or symptoms of a significant illness are present, testing may be required to confirm the diagnosis. This may include various blood tests, x-rays, or other diagnostic tests.
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