[39F] Experiencing fatigue, pain, numbness, and skin changes

Patient Description

A 39-year-old female reports a constellation of symptoms including a persistent fatigue that has been present for a few years, characterized by bouts of high energy followed by a constant lagging feeling. The fatigue is severe, rated 10/10 at its worst, and does not follow a specific pattern. She also describes an all-over body ache that sometimes impairs her walking and reduces grip strength in her hands. Additionally, she experiences numbness in the outer sides of her hands and feet, including the last two toes and three fingers on each hand, which has been occurring on and off for a couple of years. She has observed a knot in her right wrist that comes and goes, and recently, a knot behind her right knee accompanied by a mild aching and itching sensation. The patient also notes a constant red flushing across her cheeks resembling mini busted blood vessels. Her medical history includes diabetes, diagnosed approximately four years ago, and bipolar disorder, diagnosed over a decade ago. She has lost 54 pounds in the past year and a half due to better diabetes management. She is currently on a daily injection of Victoza and Lamictal. She has allergies to contrast dye and bee stings, requiring her to carry an EpiPen. No other medications are reported.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

Fibromyalgia: This is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. It's often accompanied by sleep, memory, and mood issues. The numbness you're experiencing in your hands and feet could be related to this condition.
- Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, exercise, stress-reduction measures, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disorder that can cause painful swelling and knots in the joints. It can also cause fatigue and overall aching.
- Treatment typically involves medications to slow the disease's progress, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. Physical therapy may also be beneficial.
Rosacea: This is a common skin condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels in your face. It may also produce small, red, pus-filled bumps.
- Treatment can involve prescription creams or oral medications to reduce redness and inflammation.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

Keep a symptom diary: Note down when your symptoms occur, their intensity, and any potential triggers. This can help your healthcare provider in making a diagnosis.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help manage symptoms of many chronic conditions.
Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate many conditions. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga may help.
Consult a healthcare provider: It's important to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider who can provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What you should look out for

Increased intensity or frequency of symptoms
New symptoms
Symptoms that interfere with your daily activities or quality of life

Remember, you should consult a healthcare provider for a definitive diagnosis and treatment.

1

Hugs

0

Comments

Save

1 yr ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Get Better With At-Home Conservative Treatment

FEATOL Wrist Brace for Carpal Tunnel

[39F] Experiencing fatigue, pain, numbness, and skin changes

What might be happening

What you can do

What you should look out for

Experiencing symptoms?