[40F] Experiencing chest pain, knuckle pain, hair loss, and weight loss

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, several conditions could be causing your discomfort:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can also cause systemic symptoms such as weight loss.

  • Diagnosis typically involves blood tests (like the ANA test you mentioned) and imaging studies of the affected joints.
  • Treatment usually involves medications to reduce inflammation and slow the disease's progression.

• Lupus: This is another autoimmune disorder that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including joint pain, hair loss, and weight loss.

  • Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes a biopsy of affected tissue.
  • Treatment typically involves medications to manage symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

• Thyroid Disorders: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause hair loss and weight changes. Hyperthyroidism can also cause heart-related symptoms like chest pain.

  • Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels.
  • Treatment depends on the specific disorder and its severity, but can involve medication, radioactive iodine, or surgery.

• Stress or Anxiety: Chronic stress or anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including chest pain, stomach pain, and weight loss.

  • Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of physical examination and psychological assessment.
  • Treatment can involve a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Please remember that this is not an exhaustive list and these conditions can present differently in different people. It's also possible that you could be dealing with more than one condition at the same time.

What you can do

Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, order necessary tests, and provide appropriate treatment.

In the meantime, here are some general suggestions that might help:

1. Try to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated. This can help manage your weight and keep your body functioning properly.
2. Try to get regular exercise, as this can help manage joint pain and improve overall health. However, be careful not to overdo it and exacerbate your joint pain.
3. Try to manage your stress levels. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can be helpful for many people.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe chest pain or chest pain that is accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting.
• Severe abdominal pain or vomiting that prevents you from eating or drinking.
• Severe joint pain that prevents you from using your hands or moving around.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different approaches. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care.