[29F] With chronic gastrointestinal issues and systemic symptoms

Patient Description

A 29-year-old female presents with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, including stomach pain, cramping, bloating, episodes of constipation and diarrhea, dry heaving, positive Murphy’s sign, heartburn, and changes in stool color and consistency, including darker and lighter stools with mucus. These symptoms have been present since childhood and have progressed into adulthood. A recent colonoscopy revealed reactive gastropathy and mild duodenal intraepithelial lymphocytosis. The patient also reports systemic symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain or swelling, skin rashes, and unexplained fevers. There is no family history of autoimmune diseases. The patient has a history of cellulitis, which was treated successfully. Current medications include cromolyn (one vial every 6 hours), birth control (standard dose), Pepcid (10 mg once a day), vitamin D (2000 IU once a day), and beef liver supplements (2 capsules once a day). The patient experienced severe allergic reactions in 2023 but reports no current allergies. Menstrual history includes excruciating pain and cramping, which improved after switching from an IUD to birth control pills.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms and test results, there are a few potential explanations for what you are experiencing:

  1. Autoimmune or Inflammatory Condition: Your elevated immune complexes and C1q binding, along with symptoms like joint pain, skin rashes, and fatigue, could suggest an autoimmune or inflammatory condition. Conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can present with these symptoms. Further testing by a healthcare provider, such as specific antibody tests, might be necessary to confirm a diagnosis.

  2. Reactive Gastropathy and Duodenal Intraepithelial Lymphocytosis: These findings from your colonoscopy suggest inflammation in your stomach and small intestine. This could be related to your chronic stomach issues and might be associated with conditions like celiac disease or other forms of gastritis. A gastroenterologist might recommend dietary changes or medications to manage these symptoms.

  3. Vitamin D Deficiency: Low vitamin D levels can contribute to fatigue and bone pain. Your current supplementation should help, but it may take time to see improvements. Regular monitoring of your vitamin D levels can help ensure they return to normal.

  4. High Platelets: Elevated platelet counts can occur due to inflammation, infection, or other underlying conditions. It's important to follow up with your healthcare provider to determine the cause and whether any treatment is needed.

What you can do

Autoimmune or Inflammatory Condition:

  • Schedule an appointment with a rheumatologist or your primary care provider to discuss your symptoms and test results. They may recommend additional tests or treatments.
  • Keep a journal of your symptoms using MDandMe to track any patterns or triggers, which can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

Gastrointestinal Issues:

  • Follow any dietary recommendations provided by your gastroenterologist, such as avoiding gluten if celiac disease is suspected.
  • Consider keeping a food diary to identify any foods that worsen your symptoms.
  • Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your digestive health.

Vitamin D Deficiency:

  • Continue taking your vitamin D supplement as prescribed.
  • Spend some time in sunlight each day, if possible, to help boost your vitamin D levels naturally.

General Health:

  • Ensure you get adequate rest and manage stress, as these can impact your overall health and well-being.
  • Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor your condition and adjust treatments as needed.

What you should look out for

  • If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as severe joint pain, persistent fever, or significant changes in your digestive symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
  • Be aware of any signs of infection, especially given your recent history of cellulitis, and contact your healthcare provider if you notice any concerning symptoms.
  • Keep track of any side effects from your medications and discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Remember, while this information can help guide you, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

2 mo ago


People Also Ask


What is reactive gastropathy and how is it treated?

Reactive gastropathy is a condition characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining, often due to irritation from bile reflux, medications, or other factors. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as adjusting medications or dietary changes, and may include the use of medications to reduce stomach acid or protect the stomach lining.


Can vitamin D deficiency cause fatigue and joint pain?

Yes, vitamin D deficiency can lead to symptoms such as fatigue and joint pain. Vitamin D is important for bone health and immune function, and low levels can contribute to these symptoms. Supplementation and exposure to sunlight can help improve vitamin D levels and alleviate symptoms over time.


What are the potential causes of elevated platelet counts?

Elevated platelet counts, or thrombocytosis, can be caused by various factors including inflammation, infection, iron deficiency, or more serious conditions like myeloproliferative disorders. It's important to investigate the underlying cause with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate management.


How can dietary changes help manage gastrointestinal symptoms?

Dietary changes can help manage gastrointestinal symptoms by identifying and avoiding trigger foods that exacerbate symptoms. For example, if celiac disease is suspected, a gluten-free diet may be recommended. Keeping a food diary can help identify patterns and assist in making informed dietary adjustments to improve digestive health.


Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories


Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback