[32F] Experiencing a constellation of symptoms including neuropathy and muscle weakness

Patient Description

A 32-year-old female presents with a complex array of symptoms that have been persisting for several weeks. These include lightheadedness triggered by looking down or concentrating, joint pain ranging from shoulders to toes, hyperpigmentation around the left eye, episodes of brain fog affecting memory and concentration, decreased hearing in the left ear, hot flashes, and episodes of depression. The patient also reports muscle weakness, fatigue, memory problems, neuropathy with pressure pain in hands and feet, skin tenderness, weight gain, gastrointestinal issues, and a rapid increase in resting heart rate. There is a history of eosinophilic asthma diagnosed in 2020 and EGPA without granulomas diagnosed in 2021. The patient's medication regimen includes Nucala, Dulera, Wellbutrin, Cellcept, Zyrtec, Methotrexate, Pepcid, Cymbalta, Mucinex, Nasonex, and Spiriva. Cymbalta was started about a month ago, and Prednisone was stopped three months prior. The patient has a family history of Hashimoto's and prediabetes and is allergic to lidocaine and sulfa. Past tests for thyroid disorders, lupus, Wegener’s, MS were negative.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, it's difficult to pinpoint a single condition that could explain all of your symptoms. However, here are some possibilities:

  • Fibromyalgia: This condition is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. It is believed to amplify painful sensations by affecting the way your brain and spinal cord process painful and nonpainful signals. The fatigue, muscle weakness, joint pain, sleep disturbance, depression, and brain fog you're experiencing could be related to this condition.

    • There's no cure for fibromyalgia, but medication, exercise, stress management, and healthy habits might ease your symptoms.
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): This is a complicated 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. This could explain your fatigue, muscle weakness, joint pain, sleep disturbance, depression, and brain fog.

    • There's no single test to confirm a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome. Treatment focuses on symptom relief.
  • Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA): This is a rare disorder that causes inflammation in small and medium-sized blood vessels in people who have a history of airway allergic hypersensitivity (atopy). You mentioned that you have been diagnosed with EGPA without granulomas. Some of your symptoms like neuropathy, skin changes, and gastrointestinal problems could be related to this condition.

    • Treatment usually involves corticosteroids and other immune-suppressing drugs.
  • Side effects of medication: Some of your symptoms might be side effects of the medications you're taking. For example, Cymbalta can cause dizziness, weight gain, and sleep disturbance. Methotrexate can cause fatigue and hair loss.

What you can do

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

  1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor. They can help coordinate your care and refer you to specialists if needed.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. This can help you and your doctor understand your symptoms better and identify any patterns or triggers.
  3. Take care of your mental health. Consider seeking help from a mental health professional if you're feeling depressed.
  4. Stay active. Regular physical activity can help manage symptoms like fatigue and joint pain.
  5. Eat a balanced diet. This can help support your overall health and wellbeing.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sudden worsening of any of your symptoms

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of fibromyalgia?

Common symptoms of fibromyalgia include widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory issues, and mood problems. Patients may also experience headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, and heightened sensitivity to pain.


How is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome diagnosed?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is diagnosed primarily through a process of exclusion, as there is no specific test for it. Doctors typically rule out other conditions with similar symptoms and may use criteria such as persistent fatigue lasting more than six months, unrefreshing sleep, and cognitive impairment.


What are the typical treatments for Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA)?

Typical treatments for Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA) include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and immune-suppressing drugs to control the immune system's activity. Treatment plans are often tailored to the individual's symptoms and disease severity.


Can Cymbalta cause side effects like dizziness and weight gain?

Yes, Cymbalta can cause side effects such as dizziness, weight gain, sleep disturbances, and others. It's important to discuss any side effects with a healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust the dosage or consider alternative medications.


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