Confused at 27: What’s Happening to My Body? Am I Unwell?
I’m 27 years old, standing at 5’6” and weighing 205 pounds. I’m currently taking Paxil regularly and occasionally Adderall, but that’s the extent of my medications. I've received various mental health diagnoses, including autism, OCD, ADHD, and a few types of depression and anxiety. Lately, I’ve been experiencing several troubling issues that I’d like to share: **Primary Issue**: For the past ten days, I've been dealing with severe diarrhea, having to run to the bathroom around 20 times a day. It’s particularly alarming because I’ve noticed a bit of blood mixed in, which worries me that something might seriously be wrong internally. This level of bowel activity seems excessive, especially since my food intake is moderate—I eat 1-2 meals a day or maybe snacking on up to four occasions. I was diagnosed with IBD in my youth, but these symptoms have escalated beyond what I’ve ever faced before. **Fatigue**: My energy levels have plummeted. I typically sleep anywhere from 12 to 15 hours per day, but recently it’s ballooned to 18-20 hours, leaving me feeling lethargic. **Stress-Induced Pain**: I’ve been extremely anxious lately, which is leading to discomfort in different areas like my jaw, back, and chest at different times. **Numbness and Tingling**: I frequently feel numbness and tingling sensations in my feet. This happens every couple of days, particularly when I sit on the floor for a while. **Sore Throat**: I also have a persistent sore throat, which suggests to me that my symptoms might be more physical rather than stemming from mental health issues. I recognize that these five problems could potentially be unrelated; however, it’s puzzling that they are all occurring simultaneously. The only significant lifestyle changes I've made recently include discontinuing Saphris (which was not a choice I made willingly) and swapping regular soda for diet soda. I’m not an expert in medical matters, but I’ve never come across such a wide array of adverse effects being caused solely by these changes. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I appreciate any kind words, as I am feeling quite overwhelmed. Thank you.
Answers (1)
3/21/2025, 1:51:10 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're going through a very challenging time, and it's understandable to feel overwhelmed by the combination of symptoms you're experiencing. This situation involves several concerning aspects that merit attention. Let's break down your primary concerns and outline actionable steps you can take.
Main Points:
- Severe Diarrhea with Blood: This is particularly alarming, especially given your history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Increased Fatigue: Extreme tiredness can be linked to various issues, including nutritional deficiencies or stress.
- Stress-Induced Pain: Anxiety can manifest physically, resulting in discomfort in different areas of your body.
- Numbness and Tingling: These sensations could point to nerve-related issues, potentially exacerbated by anxiety or other factors.
- Persistent Sore Throat: This may indicate an underlying infection or irritation.
Explanation:
- Severe Diarrhea: Blood in stool can be a sign of inflammation or damage in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly concerning with your history of IBD.
- Fatigue and Sleep Patterns: An increased need for sleep can sometimes relate to physical health changes, medication effects, or mental health struggles.
- Stress and Pain: Anxiety often leads to physical symptoms, including muscle tension and discomfort.
- Numbness and Tingling: This might be related to anxiety or can indicate nerve compression, particularly if you've been sitting in positions that constrict circulation.
- Sore Throat: This may be linked to stress, environmental factors, or viral infections and might require further attention if it persists.
Next Steps:
- Monitor and Record Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including frequency, intensity, and any potential triggers or patterns you observe.
- Stay Hydrated: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Aim to drink plenty of fluids (water, electrolyte solutions) to stay hydrated.
- Review Dietary Changes: Evaluate your diet to ensure you’re getting balanced nutrition, especially with your reduced food intake. Increased fiber, if tolerated, and easily digestible foods might help.
- Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: To manage stress and anxiety, consider techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga stretches.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given the severity of the diarrhea and the presence of blood, it’s imperative to speak with a healthcare provider promptly. This could be a sign of a flare-up of IBD or another significant condition.
- Discuss Medication Changes: Review your current medications with a healthcare professional to explore any potential side effects or interactions, especially after discontinuing Saphris.
It’s important to prioritize your health and well-being during this distressing time. Please make sure to consult with a healthcare provider to address these symptoms sooner rather than later; they can provide tailored support and possible treatment options. You're not alone in this, and seeking timely help is a strong step toward feeling better.
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