[37F] With chronic fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, and neurological symptoms
Patient Description
A 37-year-old female reports experiencing significant fatigue for the past six months, with disrupted sleep and a need for frequent naps. She also describes chronic diarrhea for over a year, which is sometimes watery, mucusy, or oily, and seems to be triggered by greasy foods and ice cream. She experiences frequent headaches, often right-sided, and has a history of migraines since childhood. There is occasional left arm weakness, right-sided facial pain for almost two years, and a slight ptosis of the right eye noticeable when tired. Recently, she has been bruising easily for about a month, experiencing sharp and dull stomach pain for three weeks, and lightheadedness with balance issues for a few weeks. An ultrasound ruled out blood clots in her swollen foot, which began hurting and swelling without trauma last week.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Your symptoms could be related to multiple issues. Here are some possibilities:
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Chronic Fatigue and Weakness:
- Conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia could explain persistent fatigue and weakness. These conditions often require a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider.
- Nutritional deficiencies, such as low iron or vitamin D, might also contribute to fatigue and should be checked.
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Digestive Issues:
- Your symptoms of diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea could suggest irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or a food intolerance, especially given the reaction to greasy foods and ice cream.
- Pancreatic insufficiency or celiac disease could also cause similar symptoms and may require specific tests for diagnosis.
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Neurological Symptoms:
- The left arm weakness and headaches, especially with a history of migraines, might indicate a neurological condition. It's important to monitor these symptoms closely.
- The right-sided facial pain and ptosis could be related to nerve issues, such as trigeminal neuralgia or a migraine variant.
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Bruising and Dizziness:
- Easy bruising and dizziness could be related to blood disorders or medication side effects. It's important to have these evaluated by a healthcare provider.
What you can do
Fatigue and Weakness:
- Ensure a balanced diet rich in iron and vitamins.
- Consider gentle exercise, like walking or yoga, to boost energy levels.
- Use MDandMe to track your symptoms and share them with your healthcare provider.
Digestive Issues:
- Keep a food diary to identify and avoid trigger foods.
- Stay hydrated, especially during episodes of diarrhea.
- Consult a healthcare provider for possible dietary adjustments or testing.
Neurological Symptoms:
- Monitor the frequency and intensity of headaches and arm weakness.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing.
- Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or become more frequent.
Bruising and Dizziness:
- Avoid activities that could lead to injury.
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent dizziness.
- Consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.
What you should look out for
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe headaches, vision changes, or sudden weakness.
- Monitor for any new or worsening symptoms, such as increased bruising or severe abdominal pain.
- Keep track of your symptoms using MDandMe to provide detailed information to your healthcare provider.
Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.
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2 mo ago