[43F] With rash, fatigue, hair loss, and cold extremities

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described and your family history, here are some possibilities:

1. Autoimmune Condition: Your symptoms, including fatigue, hair loss, cold extremities, and rash, along with a family history of lupus and Graves' disease, suggest the possibility of an autoimmune condition. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. Lupus, for example, can cause a variety of symptoms, including skin rashes, fatigue, and hair loss.

2. Thyroid Dysfunction: Symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, cold extremities, and occasional ankle swelling could be related to thyroid dysfunction, such as hypothyroidism. This condition occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, and hair loss. Given your family history of Graves' disease, which affects the thyroid, it's worth considering thyroid testing.

3. Contact Dermatitis or Eczema: The sudden onset of an itchy rash could be due to contact dermatitis, which is a skin reaction to an irritant or allergen. Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is another possibility, which is a chronic skin condition that causes itchy, inflamed skin.

What you can do

Rash:

• Avoid scratching the rash to prevent further irritation or infection.
• Continue using over-the-counter antihistamines like Benadryl to help with itching.
• Apply a soothing lotion or cream, such as calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream, to reduce itching and inflammation.
• If the rash persists or worsens, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.

Fatigue, Hair Loss, and Cold Extremities:

• Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and consider testing for autoimmune conditions and thyroid function.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall health.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, which may help alleviate some symptoms.

Blurry Vision and Memory Loss:

• Keep track of when these symptoms occur and any potential triggers.
• Discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider, as they may be related to an underlying condition.

General Health:

• Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, and share insights with your healthcare provider.
• Stay hydrated and get adequate rest to support your body's healing process.

What you should look out for

• Severe or Sudden Onset of Symptoms: If you experience a sudden and severe worsening of your symptoms, such as intense pain, swelling, or a rash that rapidly spreads, seek medical attention.
• Neurological Symptoms: If you experience sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, severe headache, or weakness on one side of your body, seek immediate medical care.
• Signs of Infection: High fever, chills, or a rash accompanied by other systemic symptoms may indicate an infection that requires prompt treatment.

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!