[62F] With severe fatigue and headaches

Patient Description

A 62-year-old female with a history of type 2 diabetes, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and hypothyroidism presents with severe fatigue and headaches for the past six months. The fatigue is debilitating, leading to excessive sleep and difficulty completing daily tasks. The patient reports a 10-pound weight loss over three months, increased hunger, extreme thirst, and frequent urination every hour and a half. She experiences numbness in her feet and tingling and weakness in her hands. Headaches occur throughout the day, with pain behind the eyes and sides of the head, often leading her to sleep to cope. Recent A1C was 8.0. Current medications include Metformin, Farxiga, Levothyroxine, Tramadol, Pregabalin, Atorvastatin, and Lisinopril. No sleep disturbances or blurred vision reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Your symptoms could be related to several conditions:

  1. Diabetes Management:

    • Your extreme thirst, frequent urination, and high A1C level suggest that your blood sugar may not be well-controlled. This can lead to fatigue and headaches.
    • Typical treatments include adjusting medications, diet, and exercise to better manage blood sugar levels.
  2. Fibromyalgia:

    • This condition can cause widespread pain and fatigue, which might contribute to your symptoms.
    • Management often involves medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
  3. Hypothyroidism:

    • If not well-controlled, it can cause fatigue and weight changes.
    • Regular monitoring and adjusting your Levothyroxine dosage may be necessary.
  4. Medication Side Effects:

    • Farxiga can cause increased thirst and urination. Discussing these side effects with your doctor might be helpful.

What you can do

For Diabetes Management:

  • Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.
  • Follow a balanced diet and exercise routine.
  • Discuss with your doctor about adjusting your medications.

For Headaches and Fatigue:

  • Ensure you stay hydrated and maintain a regular sleep schedule.
  • Consider relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
  • Over-the-counter pain relief may help, but consult your doctor first.

For General Well-being:

  • Keep a symptom journal using MDandMe to track your symptoms and share with your healthcare provider.
  • Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to adjust treatment plans as needed.

What you should look out for

  • If you experience worsening symptoms, such as severe headaches, vision changes, or increased numbness, seek medical attention promptly.
  • Monitor for signs of low blood sugar, such as dizziness or confusion, and address them immediately.

Remember, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

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2 mo ago


People Also Ask


How can poorly controlled diabetes contribute to symptoms like fatigue and headaches?

Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to high blood sugar levels, which may cause symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, increased thirst, and frequent urination. Managing blood sugar through medication, diet, and exercise is crucial to alleviate these symptoms.


What are some common symptoms of fibromyalgia, and how can they be managed?

Fibromyalgia often causes widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Management includes medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and stress reduction techniques.


How does hypothyroidism affect energy levels and weight, and what can be done to manage it?

Hypothyroidism can lead to fatigue and weight gain due to a slowed metabolism. Managing it involves regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels and adjusting the dosage of medications like Levothyroxine as needed.


What are the potential side effects of Farxiga, and how should they be addressed?

Farxiga can cause side effects such as increased thirst and urination. It's important to discuss these with your doctor, who may adjust your medication or suggest ways to manage these symptoms.


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