[27F] Experiencing significant weight fluctuations, daily headaches, and sensitivities

Patient Description

A 27-year-old female has been experiencing significant weight fluctuations over the past three years, with an overall gain of 70lbs despite a decrease in appetite. She reports daily headaches for the past nine months, described as sharp, throbbing pain behind the right eye, rated 9 out of 10 in severity, and exacerbated by light and sound. Additionally, she has moderate sensitivity to sound for the past year and often experiences neck pain. She also experiences nausea but no vomiting. The patient has a family history of heart disease and believes she may have vitiligo, noting changes in skin pigmentation, though not officially diagnosed. She is not currently on any prescription medications and does not take over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or supplements.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

  • Hypothyroidism: This condition occurs when your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms can include unexplained weight gain, fatigue, and sensitivity to cold. This condition can be diagnosed with a simple blood test and is usually treated with daily hormone replacement tablets.
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Symptoms can include weight gain, fatigue, and irregular periods. PCOS can be diagnosed through a combination of blood tests and ultrasound, and treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and medication to manage symptoms.
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): This is a complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that can't be explained by any underlying medical condition. The fatigue worsens with physical or mental activity, but doesn't improve with rest. Diagnosis is usually made by ruling out other illnesses, and treatment focuses on symptom relief.
  • Migraines: Your description of headaches, especially the location and the association with light and sound sensitivity, could be indicative of migraines. Migraines can be diagnosed by a doctor based on your symptoms, and treatment usually involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes to help manage symptoms.

Please note that these are just possibilities, and it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider: They can perform a physical examination and order necessary tests to help determine the cause of your symptoms.
  2. Keep a symptom diary: This can help you and your healthcare provider identify any patterns or triggers related to your symptoms.
  3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can help manage weight and improve overall health.
  4. Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest: These can help manage headaches and fatigue.
  5. Avoid known headache triggers: These can include certain foods, smells, or bright lights.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe headache or headache that comes on suddenly
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Difficulty seeing in one or both eyes
  • Difficulty walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination
  • Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body

These could be signs of a serious condition, such as a stroke. Remember, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include unexplained weight gain, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, hair loss, and depression. It can be diagnosed with a blood test measuring thyroid hormone levels and is typically treated with hormone replacement therapy.


How is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) diagnosed and treated?

PCOS is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to check hormone levels, and an ultrasound to look for cysts on the ovaries. Treatment often involves lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, and medications to regulate menstrual cycles and manage symptoms.


What are the typical symptoms of migraines and how can they be managed?

Typical symptoms of migraines include severe headache often on one side of the head, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and sometimes visual disturbances. Management includes avoiding known triggers, using medications to relieve symptoms, and implementing lifestyle changes such as regular sleep and stress management.


What lifestyle changes can help manage weight gain and improve overall health?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage weight gain and improve health include regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, and managing stress effectively.


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