[35F] Experiencing sudden hair loss, weight gain, and low libido

Patient Description

A 35-year-old female presents with sudden hair loss, particularly noticeable on the sides of the scalp, and an unexplained weight gain of 25 pounds over a 6-month period. The patient also reports a new onset of low libido coinciding with the same timeframe. Additionally, she has a long-standing history of depression, which has recently worsened, and she is experiencing digestive issues characterized by bloating, alternating diarrhea and constipation, and sharp, intermittent stomach pain on the upper left side. The patient notes that these gastrointestinal symptoms have been present for a few years but have become more pronounced in the past 6 months. She denies any recent travel, fever, or chills. The patient also reports irregular menstrual cycles and severe mood changes but no current thoughts of self-harm.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Hypothyroidism: This is a condition where your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, depression, and constipation.

    • Treatment typically involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine, which restores adequate hormone levels and reverses the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): This is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Symptoms can include weight gain, hair loss, depression, and irregular periods.

    • Treatment of PCOS may involve lifestyle modifications and medication to manage individual symptoms.

What you can do

  1. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. They may want to perform blood tests to check your hormone levels and rule out conditions like hypothyroidism or PCOS.
  2. In the meantime, try to maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine. This can help manage your weight and improve your mood.
  3. If your depression is severe or you're having thoughts of self-harm, seek immediate help from a mental health professional or a trusted person in your life.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in your stool
  • Suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of hypothyroidism?

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, depression, constipation, and sensitivity to cold. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.


How is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) diagnosed?

PCOS is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to check hormone levels, and sometimes an ultrasound to look at the ovaries.


What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of PCOS?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage PCOS symptoms include maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise, managing stress, and possibly using medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider to regulate menstrual cycles and manage other symptoms.


When should someone seek immediate medical attention for digestive issues?

Immediate medical attention for digestive issues is necessary if you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or any other alarming symptoms such as persistent vomiting or unexplained weight loss.


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