[19M] Experiencing loss of appetite, constant thirst, and reduced exercise tolerance

Patient Description

A 19-year-old male reports a constant loss of appetite persisting for about a week, accompanied by excessive thirst and reduced tolerance to exercise. The patient has been feeling thirsty shortly after drinking water for the past 12 days and is consuming more water than usual. Despite these symptoms, the patient has not experienced any significant weight loss, severe weakness, abdominal pain, blood in stool, increased urination, fever, or chills. The patient has no known allergies, no adverse reactions to medications, and is not on any medications. There is no past medical history of chronic illnesses or recent sexual activity.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

Loss of appetite

Differential diagnosis

  • Most likely given the symptoms are psychological stress (F43.9), depression (F32.9), and anorexia nervosa (F50.0)
  • Less likely but possible are gastrointestinal disorders such as peptic ulcer disease (K25), gastritis (K29.70), and gastroenteritis (K52.9)

Plan

Perform a complete physical examination and mental health screening. Order a complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests, and thyroid function tests to rule out any underlying medical conditions. If symptoms persist, consider referral to a gastroenterologist or psychiatrist for further evaluation.

Excessive thirst

Differential diagnosis

  • Most likely given the symptoms are diabetes mellitus (E11.9), diabetes insipidus (E23.2), and psychogenic polydipsia (F98.8)
  • Less likely but possible are hypercalcemia (E83.52), chronic kidney disease (N18.9), and Sjogren's syndrome (M35.0)

Plan

Order a fasting blood glucose test and HbA1c to rule out diabetes mellitus. If these tests are normal, consider a water deprivation test to diagnose diabetes insipidus. If symptoms persist, consider referral to an endocrinologist for further evaluation.

Reduced exercise tolerance

Differential diagnosis

  • Most likely given the symptoms are anemia (D64.9), hypothyroidism (E03.9), and chronic fatigue syndrome (G93.3)
  • Less likely but possible are heart disease (I51.9), lung disease (J98.9), and muscle or joint conditions (M79.1)

Plan

Order a complete blood count (CBC) to rule out anemia, and thyroid function tests to rule out hypothyroidism. If these tests are normal, consider further testing such as an exercise stress test or pulmonary function tests. If symptoms persist, consider referral to a cardiologist or pulmonologist for further evaluation.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

1 yr ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Acid Reflux (GERD): American College of Gastroenterology Guidelines

People Also Ask


What could be causing my constant loss of appetite?

Constant loss of appetite can be caused by psychological factors such as stress or depression, or it could be due to gastrointestinal issues like peptic ulcers or gastritis. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the exact cause.


Why am I experiencing excessive thirst even after drinking water?

Excessive thirst, also known as polydipsia, can be a symptom of conditions like diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus, or psychogenic polydipsia. It is important to undergo specific tests to identify the underlying cause.


What might be the reason for my reduced tolerance to exercise?

Reduced exercise tolerance can be due to anemia, hypothyroidism, or chronic fatigue syndrome. It may also be related to heart or lung conditions. A healthcare provider can help determine the cause through appropriate testing.


What tests should I expect to undergo for these symptoms?

You should expect to undergo a complete blood count (CBC), liver and thyroid function tests, fasting blood glucose test, and HbA1c. Depending on the results, further tests like a water deprivation test or exercise stress test may be recommended.


Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback