[33F] Experiencing extreme fatigue and easy bruising

Patient Description

A 33-year-old female reports experiencing extreme tiredness, lethargy, and difficulty staying awake, even during conversations, for about a week. She also notes muscle soreness in her legs, back, neck, shoulders, and arms, along with bad headaches. The patient is bruising easily, with bruises taking longer to heal, and is experiencing dizziness, feeling hot and cold, and general weakness. She finds it difficult to lift objects that feel heavier than usual. The fatigue is constant throughout the day and significantly impacts her ability to care for her four children, including a toddler. The patient has also noticed bleeding gums and occasional nosebleeds, as well as a preference for eating chips over other foods. She reports feeling pale, experiencing unusual skin breakouts, and having a heavy and fast heartbeat. Swelling is present in her face, hands, legs, and feet, and her urine is darker with a strong odor. There is no recent history of blood tests, and she has not been exposed to other illnesses aside from her children's bacterial infections. The patient has a history of anemia and kidney infections.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few potential explanations for what you might be experiencing:

  1. Anemia: Given your history of anemia, it's possible that your symptoms of extreme tiredness, easy bruising, and pale skin are related to a recurrence or worsening of this condition. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and unusual bleeding or bruising due to a lack of healthy red blood cells.

  2. Nutritional Deficiencies: Your limited appetite and craving for chips might lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, vitamin C, or vitamin D. These deficiencies can contribute to fatigue, muscle soreness, and easy bruising.

  3. Kidney Function Issues: Your history of kidney infections and the presence of dark, foul-smelling urine could indicate a problem with kidney function. This might contribute to swelling, fatigue, and changes in urine.

  4. Infection or Inflammatory Condition: The combination of muscle soreness, swelling, and fluctuating body temperature might suggest an underlying infection or inflammatory condition, especially given your recent exposure to bacterial infections.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. They may recommend blood tests, urine tests, or other diagnostic procedures to identify the underlying issue and provide appropriate treatment.

What you can do

Extreme Tiredness and Bruising:

  • Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and request a blood test to check for anemia or other deficiencies.
  • Ensure you're consuming a balanced diet with iron-rich foods, such as leafy greens, beans, and lean meats, to support your energy levels and overall health.
  • Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share your medical notes with your provider.

Muscle Soreness and Swelling:

  • Stay hydrated and consider gentle stretching exercises to alleviate muscle soreness.
  • Elevate your legs when resting to help reduce swelling in your feet and legs.
  • Monitor your swelling and report any significant changes to your healthcare provider.

Fluctuating Body Temperature and Dizziness:

  • Keep track of your body temperature and any patterns in your dizziness using a symptom journal.
  • Avoid sudden movements and take your time when standing up to reduce dizziness.

What you should look out for

While your symptoms are concerning, they may not be immediately life-threatening. However, you should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Significant changes in your mental state or consciousness
  • Persistent or worsening symptoms despite self-care measures

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out.

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3 d ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of anemia and how can it be treated?

Common symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, dizziness, and unusual bleeding or bruising. Treatment often involves dietary changes to include more iron-rich foods, iron supplements, and addressing any underlying causes. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.


How can nutritional deficiencies affect my health and what can I do to address them?

Nutritional deficiencies can lead to fatigue, muscle soreness, easy bruising, and other health issues. To address them, ensure a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Consider consulting a healthcare provider or a nutritionist for personalized dietary advice and possibly taking supplements if needed.


What are the signs of kidney function issues and when should I see a doctor?

Signs of kidney function issues include dark, foul-smelling urine, swelling in the body, fatigue, and changes in urination patterns. It's important to see a doctor if you experience these symptoms, especially if you have a history of kidney problems, to prevent further complications.


How can I manage muscle soreness and swelling at home?

To manage muscle soreness and swelling at home, stay hydrated, perform gentle stretching exercises, and elevate your legs when resting. These measures can help alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.


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