[26F] Experiencing chronic neck pain, irregular menses, and night sweats

What might be happening

Based on the information provided, several conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Thyroid disorders: Conditions such as hyperthyroidism or thyroiditis can cause symptoms like fatigue, neck pain (due to an enlarged thyroid), weight loss, irregular menstrual cycles, and tachycardia. Thyroid disorders can also cause changes in voice and difficulty swallowing.

  • Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels. Treatment depends on the specific disorder and may involve medication, radioactive iodine, or surgery.

• Autoimmune disorders: Conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, and Raynaud's syndrome (which you've been diagnosed with). They can also cause abnormal blood tests, such as a high platelet count.

  • Diagnosis typically involves a combination of blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes tissue biopsy. Treatment usually involves medication to suppress the immune system and manage symptoms.

• Neuroendocrine tumors: Given your family history of neuroendocrine tumors, it's possible that a similar condition could be causing some of your symptoms. These tumors can produce excess hormones, leading to symptoms like flushing, diarrhea, and heart palpitations.

  • Diagnosis typically involves blood and urine tests, imaging studies, and sometimes tissue biopsy. Treatment depends on the specific type of tumor and may involve surgery, medication, radiation therapy, or other treatments.

• Anemia or iron deficiency: This could explain your fatigue, high red blood cell count, and low ferritin levels. It might also be related to your irregular menstrual cycles.

  • Diagnosis typically involves blood tests. Treatment usually involves iron supplements and addressing the underlying cause of the anemia or iron deficiency.

What you can do

Given the complexity of your symptoms and the potential conditions involved, it's important to seek medical attention. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor to discuss your symptoms and concerns. They can perform a physical examination and order necessary tests.
2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when each symptom occurs, its severity, and any potential triggers. This can help your doctor identify patterns and potential causes.
3. Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine. This can help manage symptoms like fatigue and irregular menstrual cycles.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain, especially in your chest or abdomen
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Severe headache or a headache that is different from your usual migraines
• Any new or worsening symptoms

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. 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.