[22M] Experiencing faintness, shakiness, and brain fog with increased thirst and urination

Patient Description

A 22-year-old male reports feeling faint, shaky, pale, and experiencing brain fog for several months. The shakiness, described as moderate, is primarily in the legs and hands and is exacerbated by standing. The patient feels fatigued and constantly thirsty, drinking large amounts of water and other beverages like soda, leading to frequent urination of about 6 or more times a day with urine that is consistently yellow. Eating sweets appears to alleviate the shakiness. The patient also experiences lightheadedness about once a week at random times, and when feeling faint, notices increased paleness and more prominent purple creases under the eyes. The brain fog affects the patient's ability to process information and concentrate. Additionally, the patient has blurred vision from far away and has noticed a fruity odor on their breath. No recent weight loss, fever, chills, or unprotected sexual activity was reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Hypoglycemia: This is a condition characterized by low blood sugar levels. Symptoms can include shakiness, feeling faint, and brain fog. Eating sweets can temporarily relieve these symptoms because sugar is a quick source of energy for your body.

    • Treatment typically involves eating small, frequent meals throughout the day to maintain stable blood sugar levels. In severe cases, medication may be necessary.
  • Diabetes Mellitus, possibly Type 1 given your age: This is a condition where your body either doesn't produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar) or doesn't use insulin effectively. Symptoms can include increased thirst and urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. The fruity odor on your breath could be a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication of diabetes that requires immediate medical attention.

    • Treatment typically involves insulin therapy, dietary changes, and regular exercise.
  • Dehydration: This can result from drinking too much water without replenishing electrolytes, leading to an imbalance in your body. Symptoms can include increased thirst, frequent urination, and feeling faint.

    • Treatment involves rehydrating with fluids that contain electrolytes, such as sports drinks or oral rehydration solutions.

What you can do

You should seek immediate medical attention. The combination of your symptoms suggests that you may have a serious condition that requires treatment. In the meantime, continue to stay hydrated and try to eat regular, balanced meals.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
  • Confusion or difficulty waking up
  • A significant increase in your symptoms

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 recommendations.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of hypoglycemia and how can it be managed?

Common symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, feeling faint, brain fog, sweating, and irritability. It can be managed by eating small, frequent meals that include carbohydrates and proteins to maintain stable blood sugar levels. In some cases, medication may be necessary.


How does diabetes mellitus, particularly Type 1, affect the body and what are its symptoms?

Diabetes mellitus, especially Type 1, affects the body by impairing insulin production, leading to high blood sugar levels. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and unintended weight loss. Management typically involves insulin therapy, dietary changes, and regular exercise.


What are the signs of dehydration and how can it be treated effectively?

Signs of dehydration include increased thirst, dry mouth, dark yellow urine, fatigue, and dizziness. It can be treated by drinking fluids that contain electrolytes, such as sports drinks or oral rehydration solutions, to restore the body's balance.


What is diabetic ketoacidosis and why is it considered a medical emergency?

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of diabetes where the body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones. It is considered a medical emergency because it can lead to severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Symptoms include fruity-smelling breath, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and confusion.


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