[42F] Experiencing unexplained weight loss and sore shoulders

Patient Description

A 42-year-old female has been experiencing unexplained weight loss of approximately 6 kilograms over the past three months, accompanied by intermittent soreness in both shoulders that started two weeks ago. The shoulder pain is described as deep and rates a 4 out of 10 in severity, not exacerbated by any specific movements. Additionally, the patient reports severe abdominal pain and heavy vaginal bleeding. She has a history of an ectopic pregnancy leading to the removal of a fallopian tube in 2008. No other significant medical history, allergies, or chronic conditions were reported. Current medications include ibuprofen (200 mg twice daily) and paracetamol (4 tablets twice daily).

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Ovarian Cancer: This is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries. It often goes undetected until it has spread within the pelvis and abdomen. At this late stage, ovarian cancer is more difficult to treat and is often fatal. Symptoms can include abdominal bloating or swelling, quickly feeling full when eating, weight loss, discomfort in the pelvic area, changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, and a frequent need to urinate.

    • Treatment typically involves surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible, followed by chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells.
  • Endometriosis: This is a disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that forms the lining of your uterus grows outside of your uterine cavity. Symptoms can include pelvic pain, heavy periods, and infertility.

    • Treatment typically involves pain medication, hormonal therapy, and in severe cases, surgery.
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): This is an infection of the female reproductive organs. It usually occurs when sexually transmitted bacteria spread from your vagina to your uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries. Symptoms can include pain in your lower abdomen, fever, an unusual discharge with a bad odor from your vagina, pain and/or bleeding when you have sex, burning sensation when you urinate, and bleeding between periods.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics and in severe cases, surgery.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms. They may order tests such as a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or blood tests to help determine the cause of your symptoms.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, how long they last, and any factors that seem to trigger them. This can be helpful information to share with your healthcare provider.
  3. Try over-the-counter pain relievers for your shoulder and pelvic pain. However, these should not be used as a long-term solution, and you should still seek medical attention.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your pain becomes severe or unbearable
  • You experience heavy bleeding
  • You have a fever
  • You feel faint or dizzy

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

8 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Common symptoms of ovarian cancer include abdominal bloating or swelling, quickly feeling full when eating, weight loss, discomfort in the pelvic area, changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, and a frequent need to urinate.


How is endometriosis diagnosed and treated?

Endometriosis is typically diagnosed through a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or laparoscopy. Treatment options include pain medication, hormonal therapy, and in severe cases, surgery to remove endometrial tissue.


What are the potential causes of unexplained weight loss?

Unexplained weight loss can be caused by a variety of factors including cancer, thyroid issues, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, and chronic infections. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.


What should I do if I experience heavy vaginal bleeding?

If you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. This could be a sign of a serious condition that requires immediate evaluation and treatment by a healthcare professional.


Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback