[47F] Experiencing fatigue, appetite loss, and neurological symptoms

Patient Description

A 47-year-old female reports extreme fatigue exacerbated by exercise and unrelieved by rest, persisting for 6 months. Accompanying symptoms include a loss of appetite with decreased taste sensation, body aches with constant back, neck pain, leg cramps, and tingling hands. Additionally, the patient experiences intermittent foggy blurred vision and numbness with a weakened grip in the hands, particularly when lying down, noted for 6-8 months. The patient has lost 8 lbs over 2 months and is experiencing a loss of concentration. No pre-existing conditions, allergies, or medication reactions were reported. The patient is currently taking Lexapro. No other medications were mentioned.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): This condition is characterized by extreme fatigue that can't be explained by any underlying medical condition. The fatigue worsens with physical or mental activity, but doesn't improve with rest. This could explain your extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, and loss of concentration.

    • There is no specific test for CFS. Your doctor will have to rule out other potential causes and consider the criteria for CFS.
    • Treatment for CFS focuses on symptom relief.
  • Fibromyalgia: This is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. This could explain your body aches and fatigue.

    • There is no specific test for fibromyalgia. Your doctor will have to rule out other potential causes and consider the criteria for fibromyalgia.
    • Treatment for fibromyalgia can involve a combination of medications, exercise, stress management and healthy lifestyle habits.
  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS): This is a potentially disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). This could explain your body aches, blurred vision, and numbness/weakness in your hands.

    • Diagnosis of MS can be confirmed with an MRI scan.
    • Treatment for MS typically involves managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease with medications.

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 primary care provider to discuss your symptoms. They may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This can be helpful information for your doctor.
  3. Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eat a balanced diet, get regular exercise, and ensure you're getting enough sleep. These can help manage your symptoms and improve your overall health.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms significantly worsen
  • You experience severe pain
  • You have difficulty breathing
  • You experience sudden, severe headaches
  • You have difficulty walking or moving

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?

Common symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) include extreme fatigue that worsens with physical or mental activity and doesn't improve with rest, sleep problems, difficulty with memory and concentration, muscle or joint pain, headaches, and sore throat.


How is fibromyalgia diagnosed and treated?

Fibromyalgia is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms, including widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. There is no specific test for fibromyalgia, so doctors rule out other conditions first. Treatment often involves medications, physical therapy, exercise, stress management, and lifestyle changes.


What are the early signs of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

Early signs of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can include fatigue, numbness or tingling in the limbs, muscle weakness, vision problems, balance issues, and cognitive changes. Diagnosis is typically confirmed with an MRI scan and other tests.


Can Lexapro cause any of the symptoms I'm experiencing?

Lexapro, an antidepressant, can cause side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, and changes in appetite, which might overlap with some of the symptoms you're experiencing. It's important to discuss these symptoms with your doctor to determine their cause.


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