Achaques

Achaques is a term used in Portuguese and Spanish to refer to minor health complaints or pains that affect daily life but are not considered serious illnesses. It is a colloquial expression rather than a medical diagnosis, describing a collection of non-specific symptoms such as headaches, muscle or joint pains, fatigue, indigestion, or seasonal ailments.

In everyday speech, people say they have los achaques or me da un achaque, signaling a nuisance rather than a defined disease. The concept is particularly common in discussions of aging, where individuals may notice an increase in recurring aches and general low energy, but it can be used by people of any age.

Causes and patterns: Achaques are usually non-specific and can result from temporary factors (poor sleep, stress, overexertion, minor infections) or from chronic conditions that are mild or intermittent. They may also reflect deconditioning or lifestyle factors such as sedentary behavior or poor nutrition.

Management generally involves basic self-care: adequate rest, hydration, balanced nutrition, regular physical activity where appropriate, and, for mild symptoms, over-the-counter remedies as directed. If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, recur frequently, or are accompanied by alarming signs (fever, chest pain, neurological symptoms, significant weight loss), medical evaluation is advised.

See also: malaise, non-specific symptoms, common cold, aging.