What Type of Doctor Should I Consult?
I am 38 years old, standing at 4’11" and weighing 46 kg. I currently use vaping as a form of smoking and take the following medications: Vyanse for ADHD and a progesterone-only contraceptive pill. I’m seeking a healthcare professional who can comprehensively address my various symptoms and medical conditions, as opposed to treating them individually. It seems unlikely that these issues are purely coincidental. Here’s a brief summary of my medical history: - Aortic valve regurgitation - Recurrent miscarriages - Widespread bodily pain - Severe joint hypermobility - Chronic fatigue - Low blood pressure - Frequent urinary tract infections - Rapid deterioration of vision - Blurred eyesight - Increasing tremors in my legs and hands - A full range of neurodiverse symptoms - Pins and needles sensations in my face, hands, and feet - Burning and itching sensations on my feet - Low iron levels - Dizziness upon standing - Difficulty regulating body temperature - Occasional palpitations - Skin issues, including psoriasis - Highly elastic skin - Chiari malformation I have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, but I suspect there may be more underlying factors. Both of my sisters have heart-related conditions—albeit different from mine—alongside chronic fatigue, low iron, and neurodiverse traits. My mother passed away during a valve replacement surgery and displayed symptoms similar to my own. I can’t shake the feeling that there’s a genetic component involved, yet I’ve struggled to find a healthcare provider willing to consider my complete medical history. As such, I’m contemplating the possibility of consulting a private specialist in the UK. Should I be exploring a geneticist or a rheumatologist? My mental health is at a critical low point, making it essential to address these health concerns once and for all. Additionally, if there is a genetic aspect, I want to ensure my children are evaluated and informed. Any guidance on the types of specialists I should reach out to would be greatly appreciated, as I currently feel uncertain about where to start. Thank you for your help!
Answers (1)
3/18/2025, 1:01:04 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are facing a complex array of health issues, which understandably feels overwhelming. Your desire to consult a healthcare professional who can address your health comprehensively is important, particularly given your detailed medical history and the potential hereditary aspects you’ve mentioned.
Main Points
You should consider consulting a geneticist to explore hereditary conditions and complex syndromes, as well as a rheumatologist who specializes in connective tissue disorders, especially given your symptoms suggestive of systemic issues. Seeking a multidisciplinary approach may also be beneficial.
Explanation
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Geneticist: A geneticist can evaluate genetic components related to your heart condition and other symptoms that might have a hereditary basis. They can also guide genetic testing, which can inform you about risks to your children, factoring in family history such as your sisters' and mother’s conditions.
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Rheumatologist: This specialist focuses on autoimmune and musculoskeletal issues, which could address your widespread pain, hypermobility, and fatigue. Many symptoms you’re experiencing may overlap with conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or other rheumatological disorders that also have genetic links.
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Other Considerations: Given the complexity of your situation, you might also consider a multidisciplinary team approach, which could involve a neurologist for your tremors and vision issues, a cardiologist for your heart concerns, and a psychologist or psychiatrist to support your mental health during this process.
Next Steps
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Identify Specialists: Look for geneticists and rheumatologists who specialize in complex cases or have experience with genetic conditions in families. Inquire about their approach to comprehensive care. You might check for specialists associated with larger healthcare institutions or hospitals that have a multidisciplinary team.
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Prepare Your History: Document your medical history clearly, including family history, symptoms, and previous diagnoses. This will be invaluable during consultations.
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Request Referrals: If you're currently under a general practitioner, ask for referrals to the identified specialists, emphasizing your need for coordinated care. If you choose to seek private care, research and make direct appointments with specialists.
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Mental Health Support: Begin to explore mental health support options, whether through therapy, support groups, or counseling. Addressing your mental health is crucial, especially as you navigate these health challenges.
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Research on Genetic Testing: Consider asking the geneticist about which tests may be beneficial for you and your family, especially regarding hereditary conditions.
Remember, taking the first step towards finding the right specialists can be daunting, but focusing on your comprehensive health will lead to more effective management of your complex symptoms. You deserve a care team that listens and acts on your concerns!
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