[24F] Experiencing whole body swelling and missed periods

Patient Description

A 24-year-old female has been experiencing significant whole body swelling for 2-3 weeks, which has progressively worsened. The swelling is sometimes red and has become painful, severely impacting her mobility. Additionally, she has missed her period since November, with multiple negative pregnancy tests. She also reports severe headaches and vision blurriness. The patient is currently on a daily regimen of 90 mg methadone. No other medications or known pre-existing conditions were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Hormonal Imbalance: Missing your period for several months and experiencing body-wide swelling could be due to a hormonal imbalance. Conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can cause these symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves hormonal therapy to regulate your menstrual cycle and alleviate symptoms.

  • Kidney Disease: Swelling throughout the body, especially if it's causing pain and difficulty walking, could be a sign of kidney disease. Kidney disease can also cause changes in menstruation.

    • Treatment typically involves managing the underlying cause of the kidney disease and may include medications to help control symptoms.

  • Liver Disease: Similar to kidney disease, liver disease can cause swelling throughout the body and changes in menstruation.

    • Treatment typically involves managing the underlying cause of the liver disease and may include medications to help control symptoms.

  • Side Effects of Methadone: Methadone can sometimes cause swelling, especially if you're on a high dose. However, it's less likely to affect your menstrual cycle.

    • Treatment typically involves adjusting the dose or switching to a different medication, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare provider can perform tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.

In the meantime, try to rest and elevate your legs to help reduce swelling. Drink plenty of fluids and maintain a balanced diet. Avoid salty foods, as they can make swelling worse.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in your urine or stool
  • Severe headache or sudden changes in vision

Remember, I'm an AI and not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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7 mo ago

People Also Ask

What could cause whole body swelling and missed periods in a young woman?

Whole body swelling and missed periods can be caused by hormonal imbalances, such as those seen in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders. Kidney or liver disease can also cause these symptoms due to fluid retention and hormonal changes.

Can methadone use lead to swelling and other symptoms?

Methadone can cause swelling as a side effect, especially at higher doses. However, it is less likely to affect menstrual cycles. If swelling occurs, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to discuss potential adjustments to the medication.

What are the potential signs of kidney or liver disease?

Potential signs of kidney or liver disease include swelling, changes in urination, fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), and changes in menstruation. It's important to seek medical evaluation if these symptoms are present.

How can hormonal imbalances affect menstruation and cause other symptoms?

Hormonal imbalances can disrupt the menstrual cycle, leading to missed periods or irregular cycles. They can also cause symptoms like swelling, weight changes, and mood swings. Conditions like PCOS or thyroid disorders are common causes of hormonal imbalances.

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