[22M] With severe systemic symptoms including shortness of breath, edema, and chest pain

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are several potential diagnoses to consider. It's important to note that these are just possibilities, and you should seek medical attention for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.

1. Infection or Sepsis

• Rationale: The severe infection in your arm, along with fever, chills, and fluid discharge, suggests a possible systemic infection or sepsis. The dark, ammonia-smelling fluid and the spread of symptoms to other parts of your body are concerning.
• Typical Treatments/Testing: Blood tests, cultures, and imaging studies to identify the source of infection. Treatment may include antibiotics and possibly hospitalization for intravenous (IV) antibiotics and supportive care.

2. Heart Failure or Cardiomyopathy

• Rationale: Your symptoms of shortness of breath, fatigue, edema, irregular heartbeat, and poor circulation could indicate heart failure or cardiomyopathy. The history of heart problems and atrial fibrillation warnings from your Apple Watch further support this possibility.
• Typical Treatments/Testing: Echocardiogram, electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, and possibly a chest X-ray. Treatment may include medications to manage heart function, lifestyle changes, and possibly more advanced interventions.

3. Autoimmune or Inflammatory Condition

• Rationale: The combination of widespread pain, swelling, bruising, and systemic symptoms like fever and chills could suggest an autoimmune or inflammatory condition such as vasculitis or lupus.
• Typical Treatments/Testing: Blood tests to check for inflammatory markers and autoimmune antibodies, imaging studies, and possibly a biopsy. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressants, and supportive care.

4. Liver or Kidney Dysfunction

• Rationale: The fluid discharge, edema, and systemic symptoms could also be related to liver or kidney dysfunction, which can cause fluid retention and systemic symptoms.
• Typical Treatments/Testing: Blood tests to assess liver and kidney function, imaging studies, and possibly a biopsy. Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, and addressing the underlying cause.

What you can do

Shortness of Breath, Chest Pain, and Edema

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the severity of your symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible or go to the emergency department. These symptoms could indicate a serious condition like heart failure or sepsis.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including when they occur and their severity. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.
• Rest and Avoid Strain: Try to rest and avoid activities that worsen your symptoms, such as strenuous exercise or lifting heavy objects.

Infection and Fluid Discharge

• Seek Medical Care: The infection in your arm and the fluid discharge are concerning and need to be evaluated by a healthcare provider. You may need antibiotics or other treatments.
• Keep the Area Clean: Ensure that the affected areas are kept clean and dry to prevent further infection.

Nausea and Dizziness

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if you are experiencing vomiting.
• Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Eating small, frequent meals can help manage nausea.

General Health and Monitoring

• Use MDandMe: You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.
• Lifestyle Changes: Consider making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and reducing stimulant use, as these can impact your overall health and heart function.

What you should look out for

Given the severity of your symptoms and the possibility of life-threatening causes, you should seek medical care as soon as you can. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

• Worsening Shortness of Breath or Chest Pain: If your shortness of breath or chest pain worsens, seek immediate medical attention.
• High Fever or Severe Chills: If your fever rises above 103°F or you experience severe chills, seek medical care.
• Severe Confusion or Dizziness: If you experience severe confusion or dizziness, seek medical attention.
• Increased Swelling or Fluid Discharge: If you notice increased swelling or fluid discharge, seek medical care.

Remember, these are just possibilities based on the information you provided. It's crucial to see a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.