[35F] Experiencing severe fatigue and various symptoms

Patient Description

A 35-year-old female presents with severe fatigue that has been worsening over the past two months, rendering her barely able to move. Accompanying symptoms include hand numbness upon waking, an enlarged thyroid, swollen lymph nodes in the neck and groin for the past year, weight gain, a sensation of choking, and brain fog. The patient also reports extreme tiredness, constipation, loss of appetite, bloating, and voice changes. She has a medical history of hemochromatosis diagnosed one month ago, hypothyroidism diagnosed at age 8, and a vitamin deficiency diagnosed one year ago. Current medications include vitamin D, folic acid, Adderall, B12, levothyroxine, and birth control. No known drug allergies. No relief from symptoms has been reported with any interventions.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms and medical history, here are a few possible conditions:

  • Hypothyroidism: You have a history of hypothyroidism and are taking levothyroxine, which is used to treat this condition. Hypothyroidism can cause fatigue, weight gain, constipation, and brain fog. An enlarged thyroid (goiter) can also occur in hypothyroidism. However, it's important to note that your medication dosage may need adjustment if you're still experiencing these symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves taking a synthetic thyroid hormone, such as levothyroxine, which you're already doing. It's important to have regular check-ups to ensure the dosage is correct.
  • Hemochromatosis: This is a condition that causes your body to absorb too much iron from the food you eat. The excess iron is stored in your organs, especially your liver, heart, and pancreas, which can lead to life-threatening conditions such as cancer, heart arrhythmias, and cirrhosis. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight loss, and joint pain.

    • Treatment for hemochromatosis usually involves regularly removing blood from your body, much as you would during blood donation.
  • Vitamin Deficiency: You mentioned a history of vitamin deficiency and are taking several supplements. Deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as B12 and D, can cause fatigue and brain fog.

    • Treatment typically involves dietary changes and supplements, which you're already doing.

What you can do

  1. Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms. They may want to adjust your levothyroxine dosage or investigate other potential causes of your symptoms.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note down when your symptoms occur, what you're doing at the time, and anything that makes them better or worse. This can help your doctor identify any patterns and make a diagnosis.
  3. Try to maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine. This can help manage symptoms of fatigue and brain fog.
  4. Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. Dehydration and lack of sleep can exacerbate feelings of fatigue and brain fog.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sudden, severe fatigue
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating

Remember, 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.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, hair loss, sensitivity to cold, and brain fog. An enlarged thyroid, or goiter, can also occur.


How is hemochromatosis typically treated?

Hemochromatosis is typically treated by regularly removing blood from the body, a process similar to blood donation, to reduce iron levels. This is known as phlebotomy.


Can vitamin deficiencies cause fatigue and brain fog?

Yes, deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as B12 and D, can lead to symptoms like fatigue and brain fog. It's important to address these deficiencies with dietary changes and supplements.


What should I do if my thyroid medication doesn't seem to be working?

If your thyroid medication doesn't seem to be working, it's important to consult your doctor. They may need to adjust your dosage or investigate other potential causes of your symptoms.


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