Definition
A general feeling of discomfort, illness, or unease whose exact cause is difficult to identify. The medical equivalent of 'I just don't feel right' that doctors actually take seriously.
Example Usage
The patient complained of fatigue and malaise for several weeks before other symptoms of hypothyroidism became apparent.
Origin
From French 'mal' (bad) and 'aise' (ease)
Fun Fact
Malaise is often the earliest symptom of serious illness, appearing before more specific symptoms—your body's vague early warning system.
Source: General medical terminology
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