[47M] With widespread itching, stomach pain, and night sweats

Patient Description

A 47-year-old male presents with widespread itching and small red bumps in some areas, which started suddenly two weeks ago. The itching is described as a tingling sensation and worsens with sweating. The patient has not found any relief and has not been exposed to environmental irritants or people with similar symptoms. Additionally, the patient reports a dull lower stomach pain for the past three weeks, rated as 3 out of 10 in severity, with no changes in stool appearance. The patient also experiences night sweats severe enough to wet sheets and clothes, which seem to be related to stress before bed. Other symptoms include bruising on the leg, lightheadedness, ear pain, headaches for years, tingling in the face, painful swallowing, and muscle pain. The patient denies fever, weight loss, fatigue, changes in appetite, recent illnesses, or infections. The patient's medical history includes diverticulitis, pre-diabetes, high cholesterol, and an unexplained blood clot three years ago. No known allergies and currently not taking any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possible explanations:

Itchy Skin with Red Bumps

  • Allergic Reaction or Contact Dermatitis: Sudden onset of itching and red bumps can be due to an allergic reaction to something you've come into contact with, even if you haven't identified a new product or irritant.
  • Eczema or Psoriasis: These chronic skin conditions can cause widespread itching and red bumps.
  • Infections: Certain infections, like scabies or fungal infections, can cause itching and red bumps.

Lower Stomach Pain

  • Diverticulitis: Given your history, a flare-up of diverticulitis could be causing your lower stomach pain.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This can cause chronic stomach pain and changes in bowel habits.

Night Sweats

  • Stress or Anxiety: Stress can cause night sweats, especially if you notice it gets worse with stress.
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like hyperthyroidism can cause night sweats.
  • Infections or Chronic Conditions: Some infections or chronic conditions can cause night sweats.

Bruising on Leg

  • Blood Clotting Issues: Given your history of an unexplained blood clot, it's important to rule out any clotting disorders.
  • Physical Trauma: Even minor bumps can cause bruising, especially if you have a tendency to bruise easily.

Lightheadedness, Headaches, and Tingling in Face

  • Migraine or Tension Headaches: These can cause headaches, lightheadedness, and tingling.
  • Neurological Issues: Conditions like neuropathy or even anxiety can cause tingling and lightheadedness.

Earache and Tender Throat

  • Infections: Ear infections or throat infections can cause these symptoms.
  • Allergies or Sinus Issues: These can also cause ear pain and a tender throat.

What you can do

Itchy Skin

  • Avoid Scratching: Try to avoid scratching to prevent further irritation.
  • Moisturize: Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
  • Cool Compresses: Apply cool compresses to the itchy areas.
  • Over-the-Counter Antihistamines: These can help reduce itching.

Lower Stomach Pain

  • Dietary Changes: Avoid foods that can trigger diverticulitis, such as nuts, seeds, and popcorn.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water.
  • Consult Your Doctor: Given your history of diverticulitis, it's important to consult your doctor for appropriate treatment.

Night Sweats

  • Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises.
  • Cool Sleeping Environment: Keep your bedroom cool and use lightweight bedding.
  • Consult Your Doctor: Persistent night sweats should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Bruising on Leg

  • Monitor the Bruise: Keep an eye on the bruise and note any changes.
  • Avoid Trauma: Be cautious to avoid further injury.
  • Consult Your Doctor: Given your history of a blood clot, it's important to rule out any clotting disorders.

Lightheadedness, Headaches, and Tingling in Face

  • Hydration: Ensure you're drinking enough water.
  • Rest: Make sure you're getting enough rest.
  • Consult Your Doctor: Persistent or severe symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Earache and Tender Throat

  • Warm Compresses: Apply a warm compress to the affected ear.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids.
  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Use pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
  • Consult Your Doctor: Persistent or severe symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

What you should look out for

Given the variety of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical care to rule out any serious conditions. Reasons to seek care more urgently include:

  • Severe or Worsening Symptoms: If any of your symptoms become severe or worsen.
  • New Symptoms: If you develop new symptoms like fever, significant weight loss, or severe fatigue.
  • Signs of Infection: Such as high fever, chills, or pus.
  • Signs of Blood Clot: Such as swelling, redness, or pain in your leg.

Remember, while I can provide some guidance, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. You can also use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.

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5 mo ago


People Also Ask


What could be causing my sudden widespread itching and red bumps?

Sudden widespread itching and red bumps can be caused by an allergic reaction, eczema, psoriasis, or infections like scabies. It's important to consider any new products or environmental changes that might have triggered this reaction.


Why am I experiencing night sweats, and should I be concerned?

Night sweats can be caused by stress, hormonal imbalances such as hyperthyroidism, or infections. If they persist, it's important to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions.


What might be the reason for my lower stomach pain given my history of diverticulitis?

Given your history of diverticulitis, the lower stomach pain could be a flare-up of this condition. It could also be related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It's advisable to consult your doctor for a proper evaluation.


What could be causing the bruising on my leg without any known injury?

Bruising on the leg without a known injury could be due to blood clotting issues, especially given your history of an unexplained blood clot. It's important to monitor the bruise and consult your doctor to rule out any clotting disorders.


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