[66F] Experiencing yeast infection, possible UTI, fatigue, and foggy thinking

Patient Description

A 66-year-old female reports experiencing symptoms of a yeast infection and a possible urinary tract infection (UTI), accompanied by significant fatigue and foggy thinking. The patient has been feeling very tired, wanting to sleep, and this has been ongoing for approximately 3 weeks. Additionally, there has been an unintentional weight loss of 90 lbs since October, without any significant changes in diet or exercise. The foggy thinking has been occurring off and on for about 6 months, which the patient believes is related to her tiredness. There is no specific time of day when the foggy thinking worsens. The patient has not been actively trying to lose weight, suggesting the weight loss may be unintentional.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions might be contributing to your symptoms:

  • Poorly controlled diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels in diabetes can cause a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, foggy thinking, and increased susceptibility to infections like yeast infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Your significant unintentional weight loss could also be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes.

    • Treatment typically involves medication to control blood sugar levels, dietary changes, and regular exercise.
  • Anemia: This condition, characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues, can cause fatigue and foggy thinking. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including chronic diseases, iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency, and more.

    • Treatment depends on the cause of the anemia but may include dietary supplements or changes, medication, procedures, or surgery in severe cases.
  • Thyroid disease: Both hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can cause fatigue and weight changes. Hypothyroidism can also cause cognitive issues like foggy thinking.

    • Treatment typically involves medication to restore normal thyroid hormone levels.
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): This is a complicated disorder 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.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and therapeutic strategies to manage symptoms.

What you can do

  1. Consult with your healthcare provider: It's important to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider, especially given your history of diabetes and significant weight loss. They can perform necessary tests and evaluations to determine the cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan.

  2. Monitor your blood sugar levels: If you aren't already, start monitoring your blood sugar levels at home. This can help you and your healthcare provider determine if your diabetes is well-controlled.

  3. Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet: This can help manage your symptoms and improve your overall health.

  4. Rest and moderate exercise: While you may feel tired, light activities such as walking can actually boost energy levels. However, it's also important to ensure you're getting enough rest.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Confusion or difficulty waking up
  • Severe abdominal pain

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of poorly controlled diabetes?

Common symptoms of poorly controlled diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing sores, and increased susceptibility to infections like yeast infections and UTIs.


How can anemia contribute to fatigue and cognitive issues?

Anemia can lead to fatigue and cognitive issues because it results in a lack of healthy red blood cells, which are necessary to carry adequate oxygen to the body's tissues, including the brain. This can cause tiredness and difficulty concentrating.


What are the signs of thyroid disease that might affect weight and thinking?

Signs of thyroid disease that might affect weight and thinking include unexplained weight gain or loss, fatigue, changes in heart rate, sensitivity to temperature, and cognitive issues such as foggy thinking or memory problems.


What lifestyle changes can help manage Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) include maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in moderate physical activity, managing stress, ensuring adequate sleep, and pacing activities to avoid overexertion.


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1 Comments


Patt#4036

9 mo ago

Woah. The unintentional weight loss is pretty concerning. Do you have a primary care doctor and have you seen them recently? Would definitely want to get some lab tests done: specifically for blood sugar + ha1c, blood cells, and thyroid hormones

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