[20F] Experiencing extreme fatigue and dysphagia

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are several possibilities:

• Hypothyroidism: You mentioned that you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and are on medication for it. Hypothyroidism can cause fatigue, difficulty swallowing, and dry cough. However, it's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. If your symptoms are due to hypothyroidism, it could mean that your current dose of levothyroxine may not be sufficient.

  • Treatment: Your doctor may need to adjust your medication dosage. Regular follow-ups and blood tests are necessary to ensure that your thyroid hormone levels are within the normal range.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause difficulty swallowing.

  • Treatment: Over-the-counter antacids can help neutralize stomach acid. If these don't help, your doctor might recommend prescription medication or surgery.

• Anxiety: Anxiety can manifest as physical symptoms including difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and fatigue. You mentioned that you are taking sertraline, which is often used to treat anxiety and depression. If your symptoms are due to anxiety, it could mean that your current dose of sertraline may not be sufficient.

  • Treatment: Your doctor may need to adjust your medication dosage. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be effective in treating anxiety.

What you can do

1. Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms. They may need to adjust the dosages of your current medications.
2. Keep a symptom diary. Note down when your symptoms occur, what you're doing at the time, and what foods you've eaten. This can help identify any patterns or triggers, which will be useful information for your doctor.
3. Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help manage your symptoms. Avoid foods and drinks that can trigger acid reflux, such as fatty or fried foods, tomato sauce, alcohol, chocolate, mint, garlic, onion, and caffeine.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• Severe pain in your abdomen or back
• Symptoms that are progressively getting worse or are not improving with treatment

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.