[18F] Experiencing menstrual irregularities, increased gag reflex, and recurring nausea

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female presents with menstrual irregularities, including a recent cycle with abnormally light flow and unexpected bleeding shortly after, which may not be related to exercise. She reports an increased gag reflex over the past few months, rating the severity as 7-8, with gagging occurring without direct stimulation of the throat. Additionally, she experiences recurring nausea that has worsened over time and now occurs without an obvious trigger, such as running or cardio. Her menstrual cycle has always been irregular, with intervals of approximately 24 days +/- 4 days, and periods typically lasting around 5 days, starting with a heavy flow that tapers to light. She has taken a pregnancy test recently, which was negative. There is no report of severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or breast tenderness.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possibilities:

Pregnancy: Even though you've had a negative pregnancy test, it's possible that you tested too early or there was an error with the test. Pregnancy can cause nausea, changes in appetite, and changes in your menstrual cycle.
- Pregnancy tests are usually accurate, but it's possible to get a false negative if you test too early. If you still suspect you might be pregnant, you could take another test in a week or so.
Hormonal Imbalance: Hormonal imbalances can cause changes in your menstrual cycle, nausea, and increased gag reflex. This could be due to a variety of conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders.
- Treatment for hormonal imbalances depends on the underlying cause. It might involve lifestyle changes, medication, or other therapies.
Stress or Anxiety: Stress and anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including changes in your menstrual cycle and increased gag reflex.
- Treatment for stress and anxiety might involve therapy, medication, relaxation techniques, or lifestyle changes.

What you can do

If you suspect you might be pregnant, you could take another pregnancy test in a week or so. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully.
Try to identify any sources of stress in your life and find ways to manage them. This could involve relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga, talking to a trusted friend or family member, or seeking help from a mental health professional.
If your symptoms continue or get worse, make an appointment to see a healthcare provider. They can help identify the cause of your symptoms and suggest appropriate treatment.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek medical attention more urgently:

Severe abdominal pain
Heavy bleeding that soaks through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours
Severe nausea or vomiting
Any other symptoms that concern you

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

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