[21F] With persistent low body temperature, fatigue, and systemic symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms and history you’ve shared, here are the most likely explanations for your condition:

1. Thyroid Dysfunction (Hypothyroidism):

   • Symptoms like low body temperature (94.4°F), fatigue, weight gain, irregular periods, and body tenderness strongly suggest an underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism slows your metabolism and can also weaken your immune system, making you more prone to infections.

2. Chronic Inflammation or Autoimmune Condition:

   • Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, and it may be linked to other inflammatory or immune-related issues. Chronic inflammation could explain your low white blood cell count, frequent infections, and body tenderness.

3. Adrenal Insufficiency or Dysregulation:

   • Symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, shaking, and improvement with sugar suggest possible adrenal issues, such as low cortisol levels or blood sugar dysregulation.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies:

   • Low white blood cells and fatigue could be due to deficiencies in vitamin B12, folate, or iron, which are common in people with chronic inflammation or autoimmune conditions.

5. Kidney Hyperfiltration:

   • Your high GFR (137.6 and 138.3) could indicate kidney hyperfiltration, which may occur in conditions like early diabetes, high blood pressure, or obesity. However, it may also be a temporary finding.

6. Bone Marrow Suppression or Dysfunction:

   • Your low white blood cell count and high red blood cell count may indicate an issue with bone marrow function, possibly related to chronic inflammation, medications, or an underlying condition.

What you can do

1. Address Low Body Temperature, Fatigue, and Dizziness

• Eat Regularly: Have small, balanced meals every 3–4 hours to stabilize blood sugar levels. Include protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Avoid skipping meals.
• Stay Warm: Dress in layers, use heating pads, and drink warm beverages to maintain body temperature.
• Monitor Blood Sugar: Consider using a home glucometer to check your blood sugar during episodes of dizziness or shaking.

2. Support Your Immune System

• Boost Nutrition: Focus on foods rich in vitamins C, D, zinc, and iron to strengthen your immune system. Consider a multivitamin if your diet is lacking.
• Prevent Infections: Wash your hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and use a saline nasal spray to keep your sinuses clear.

3. Manage Psoriasis

• Moisturize Regularly: Continue using Vanicream or switch to a heavier emollient like CeraVe or Eucerin if your skin remains dry.
• Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid triggers like stress, certain foods, or harsh soaps.
• Consider Light Therapy: If topical treatments and injections haven’t worked, ask your doctor about phototherapy (UVB light treatment).

4. Address Irregular Periods and Heavy Bleeding

• Iron Supplements: If heavy bleeding has caused anemia, consider taking an iron supplement (e.g., ferrous sulfate) after consulting your doctor.
• Track Your Cycle: Use a period tracker app to monitor irregularities and share this information with your doctor.
• Hormonal Regulation: Discuss options like birth control pills or other hormonal treatments with your doctor to regulate your cycle.

5. Monitor and Manage Blood Cell Abnormalities

• Follow-Up Testing: Schedule follow-up blood tests to monitor your red and white blood cell counts.
• Avoid Infections: With a low white blood cell count, take extra precautions to avoid infections, such as wearing a mask in crowded places.

6. Investigate High GFR

• Hydration: Stay hydrated, but avoid overhydration, as it can affect kidney function.
• Limit Protein Intake: If you consume a high-protein diet, consider moderating your intake to reduce kidney strain.

7. Lifestyle Adjustments

• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce stress, which can worsen psoriasis and fatigue.
• Exercise: Engage in light, regular exercise to improve circulation and energy levels. Avoid overexertion, especially if you feel fatigued.

8. Work Closely with Your Doctor

• Tests to Request:
  • Thyroid function tests (TSH, free T4)
  • Adrenal function tests (cortisol levels)
  • Vitamin and mineral levels (B12, folate, iron)
  • Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) to assess kidney and liver function
  • Autoimmune panel to check for other inflammatory conditions
• Specialists to Consider:
  • Endocrinologist: For thyroid, adrenal, or hormonal issues.
  • Rheumatologist: For autoimmune conditions and body tenderness.
  • Dermatologist: For advanced psoriasis treatments.

What you should look out for

Seek medical care promptly if you experience any of the following:

• Fever over 100.4°F or signs of infection (e.g., chills, worsening fatigue).
• Severe dizziness, confusion, or fainting.
• Heavy menstrual bleeding that soaks through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours.
• New or worsening symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling.

Track Your Symptoms with MDandMe

Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share detailed notes with your healthcare provider. This can help identify patterns and ensure you get the most out of your medical visits.

Let me know if you’d like help preparing for a doctor’s visit or exploring any of these conditions further!