[39F] Experiencing chronic fatigue, cold intolerance, and various symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, a few conditions could be considered:

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): This condition is 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. It's often accompanied by other symptoms such as muscle or joint pain, headaches, and sleep problems.

  • There's no single test to confirm a diagnosis of CFS. You may need a variety of medical tests to rule out other health problems that have similar symptoms. Treatment is focused on symptom relief.

• Hypothyroidism: This is a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain crucial hormones. Hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages, but over time, untreated hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease. Symptoms include fatigue, sensitivity to cold, and unexplained weight gain.

  • Treatment typically involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine.

• Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can cause fatigue, rash, and swelling. Raynaud's phenomenon, which you mentioned, is also common in these conditions.

  • Treatment typically involves managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups.

What you can do

While waiting for a formal diagnosis, here are some things you can do:

1. Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and ensuring you get enough sleep.
2. Keep a symptom diary. This can help you and your doctor identify patterns or triggers, which can be useful for diagnosis and treatment.
3. Stay hydrated and avoid standing for long periods if you notice that it worsens your swelling.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Severe swelling, especially if it's accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as high fever, severe pain, or changes in mental state (like confusion)

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.