[20F] Experiencing dizziness, headaches, and other systemic symptoms

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female has been experiencing a range of symptoms for several months, including dizziness with a spinning sensation and lightheadedness that worsens with head movement, severe headaches described as pounding, sharp, aching, or throbbing, and difficulty sleeping with night sweats and hot flashes. She reports a loss of appetite and has noticed red marks on her body, puffiness in her cheeks, and a dark, bruise-like appearance under her eyes. She also mentioned a burning sensation associated with the red skin marks, which are present on her arms, stomach, chest, legs, and back. The patient has a history of endometriosis, thyroid disease, ineffective esophageal motility disorder, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, depression, acid reflux, and was treated for thyroid cancer but is currently cancer-free. She is not taking any medications and does not have any known drug allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, several possibilities could be considered:

  • Thyroid Disease: Given your history of thyroid disease and thyroid cancer, some of your symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and changes in appetite could be related to an imbalance in your thyroid hormones. Thyroid disease can also cause changes in skin (like a rash) and mood disturbances.

  • Anemia: This condition, which involves a lack of healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues, could explain your fatigue, dizziness, and paleness. It can be caused by many conditions, including endometriosis, which you have a history of.

  • Autoimmune Disease: Given your history of thyroid disease and endometriosis, both of which have autoimmune components, it's possible that another autoimmune condition could be causing some of your symptoms. Autoimmune diseases can cause a wide range of symptoms including fatigue, rashes, and joint pain.

  • Depression or Anxiety: Both of these conditions, which you have a history of, can cause physical symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and changes in appetite. They can also worsen the perception of other symptoms.

  • Side effects of medication: If you're taking any medication for your pre-existing conditions, some of your symptoms could be side effects.

What you can do

Given the range and severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss your symptoms. They can perform a physical examination and order appropriate tests, such as blood tests to check your thyroid function and red blood cell count.

  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when each of your symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This can help your healthcare provider in diagnosing your condition.

  3. Try to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated, especially since you've been experiencing a loss of appetite.

  4. Try to establish a regular sleep schedule, which can help manage your insomnia and fatigue. Avoid caffeine and electronic screens for at least an hour before bed.

  5. If you're feeling anxious or depressed, reach out to a mental health professional. They can provide strategies to help manage your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe headache or a headache that is different from your usual headaches
  • Sudden or severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty breathing or chest pain
  • Sudden changes in vision
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


Can thyroid disease cause skin changes and mood disturbances?

Yes, thyroid disease can cause skin changes such as rashes and mood disturbances like anxiety or depression due to imbalances in thyroid hormones.


What are the common symptoms of anemia and how is it related to endometriosis?

Common symptoms of anemia include fatigue, dizziness, and paleness. Endometriosis can lead to anemia due to heavy menstrual bleeding, which reduces red blood cell count.


How can autoimmune diseases affect the body and what symptoms might they cause?

Autoimmune diseases can cause a wide range of symptoms including fatigue, rashes, joint pain, and organ dysfunction as the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues.


What are some strategies to manage insomnia and fatigue related to anxiety or depression?

To manage insomnia and fatigue related to anxiety or depression, establish a regular sleep schedule, avoid caffeine and screens before bed, and consider seeking help from a mental health professional for coping strategies.


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