[41M] Experiencing multiple symptoms including skin infection and vertigo

Patient Description

A 41-year-old male presents with a 4-day history of a skin infection characterized by folliculitis, redness, soreness, and swelling located on the medial right knee and around both nostrils. The infection sites are painful, warm to the touch, and have become scabby. The patient also reports chills and a dull ache at the injection sites, which started at the same time as the skin infection. Additionally, the patient has been experiencing vertigo for the same duration, describing it as extreme dizziness and loss of balance, particularly when lying down, rating the severity as 7 out of 10. The patient also notes sudden and severe acid reflux that occurred the previous night, accompanied by bubbling discomfort and clamminess. Diarrhea started today, with the patient having had three episodes, described as gassy and difficult to pass. The patient has a lifelong history of difficulty with defecation. No recent travel, injuries, or specific food triggers were reported. No fever was mentioned, but the redness from the skin infection has ceased to spread or intensify.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Folliculitis: This is an infection of the hair follicles, which can cause redness, soreness, and swelling. It's usually caused by bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus.

    • Treatment typically involves topical or oral antibiotics.
  • Vertigo: This is a sensation of feeling off balance, often described as a spinning sensation. It can be caused by issues in the brain or inner ear. In your case, it could be related to benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which is triggered by specific changes in the position of your head, such as when you lie down.

    • Treatment can involve certain maneuvers performed by a doctor or physical therapist to help alleviate symptoms.
  • Gastrointestinal issues: Your diarrhea and difficulty with bowel movements could be due to a variety of conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food intolerances, or an infection. Your acid reflux could be due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

    • Treatment for these conditions often involves dietary changes, medications, and lifestyle modifications.

Please note that these are possible explanations based on the information you've provided, but they are not definitive diagnoses.

What you can do

  1. For your skin infection, keep the area clean and avoid scratching or picking at it. Over-the-counter antibiotic creams may help, but you should see a healthcare provider for a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.

  2. For your vertigo, avoid sudden changes in position, especially when lying down. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention.

  3. For your gastrointestinal issues, try to identify any food or drink triggers and avoid them. Over-the-counter medications may help with symptoms, but you should see a healthcare provider for a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.

What you should look out for

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

  • Increasing pain, redness, or swelling at the site of your skin infection
  • Fever or chills
  • Severe or worsening vertigo
  • Blood in your stool or severe abdominal pain
  • Difficulty swallowing or chest pain associated with your acid reflux

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your personal circumstances. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


What causes folliculitis and how is it treated?

Folliculitis is often caused by a bacterial infection, typically Staphylococcus aureus, affecting the hair follicles. Treatment usually involves keeping the area clean and using topical or oral antibiotics as prescribed by a healthcare provider.


What are common causes of vertigo and how can it be managed?

Vertigo can be caused by issues in the inner ear, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), or problems in the brain. Management may include specific maneuvers performed by a doctor or physical therapist, and avoiding sudden head movements.


What might cause sudden acid reflux and diarrhea?

Sudden acid reflux and diarrhea can be due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), food intolerances, infections, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Identifying and avoiding triggers, along with medications, can help manage symptoms.


When should I seek medical attention for a skin infection?

You should seek medical attention for a skin infection if you experience increasing pain, redness, or swelling, develop a fever or chills, or if the infection does not improve with initial treatment.


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