Seeking Guidance for Unexplained Skin and Health Issues
I'm a 27-year-old female, standing at 164 cm and weighing 60 kg, and I'm reaching out for support because I feel incredibly lost. Despite undergoing two hospital admissions and various tests, the only results I received were that my Vitamin D level is at 45 and a chest X-ray indicated rib cartilage calcifications. Apart from these, my blood tests show no abnormalities, and I also tested negative for ANA. It all began with muscle spasms, a noticeable purple hue on my arms, hair thinning, blurred eyesight, and episodes of panic. Following these symptoms, I was given a course of antibiotics—starting with doxycycline and later switching to minocycline—and that's when I started experiencing issues with my connective tissue. My skin has turned extraordinarily stretchy and loose all over, feeling dry without the sensation of dryness. I've lost volume in my lips, and the cartilage in my nose seems to be deteriorating. Moreover, the hair on my body has loosened significantly. Medical professionals insist that my sensations are mere perceptions, even though those close to me can observe these changes. I consulted a physical therapist who specializes in connective tissue disorders, and he mentioned he had never encountered skin like mine; he likened its texture to that of chewing gum. Additionally, my tongue has noticeably shrunk and lacks its previous plumpness. Swallowing feels strange, as my throat seems unusually loose, leading me to worry that these changes may indicate internal issues as well. I am also facing heart-related concerns—my heart rate maxes out at 125 bpm during physical activity, which is unexpected considering I've been relatively inactive at home for months. One would think a lack of physical fitness would result in a higher heart rate, but that doesn't seem to be the case. I have started taking supplements and collagen in hopes of alleviating my symptoms, but the worsening of my condition terrifies me. I've grown weary of seeking help, as my experiences have often been dismissed as somatic symptom disorder. Previously, I was very active, working out six days a week while also maintaining a full-time job, but now it feels as though that version of me has vanished. I've researched extensively, but I have yet to find anyone who shares a similar experience, which leaves me feeling increasingly despondent. To clarify, I have never had any history of connective tissue disorders or joint problems, which leads me to rule out EDS. Thank you all for your support.
Answers (1)
3/23/2025, 5:01:14 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing a complex set of symptoms that have significantly impacted your quality of life. It’s understandable to feel lost and concerned when dealing with unexplained health issues. Let’s break down your situation and explore some potential next steps to help you.
Main Points:
- Symptom Overview: You're facing issues related to muscle spasms, skin changes, hair loss, blurred vision, and heart rate abnormalities.
- Concerns about Connective Tissue: You have observed changes in your skin and connective tissue, along with troubling sensations in your throat and tongue.
- Current Health Management: You're taking supplements and collagen but are worried about your worsening condition.
Explanation:
Many factors can contribute to the symptoms you’re experiencing, and while you’ve consulted multiple healthcare providers, getting a comprehensive understanding of these changes is crucial. Vitamin D is essential for many bodily functions, and while your levels are within the normal range, ensuring that they stay optimal is important for overall health.
- The symptoms like skin extensibility (stretchy skin) and hair loss could relate to more than just surface issues and may indicate underlying changes in connective tissue.
- Your elevated heart rate during activity might also signal an autonomic response or changes in cardiovascular fitness, especially after a period of inactivity.
Next Steps:
-
Keep a Detailed Symptom Journal: Document your symptoms, their severity, any triggers, and any changes over time. Note any specific situations when you experience these issues, as this can provide valuable information for healthcare providers.
-
Focus on Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you're drinking enough water and maintaining a balanced diet rich in whole foods, vitamins, and minerals. Consider speaking with a nutritionist who can guide you toward foods that support skin and tissue health.
-
Review Supplements: Consult a healthcare provider, preferably one familiar with your symptoms, to review the supplements and collagen you’re taking. While they can provide benefits, it’s essential to ensure they’re appropriate for your current condition.
-
Gentle Physical Activity: Engage in low-impact exercises, like walking or swimming, to gradually improve your cardiovascular fitness. Monitor how your body reacts to different activities.
-
Consider a Multidisciplinary Approach: Since your condition involves multiple systems (skin, connective tissue, cardiovascular), think about a combined care approach including rheumatology for connective tissue disorders, an endocrinologist for potential hormonal influences, and possibly a neurologist for sensory issues.
-
Seek a Support Network: Look for support groups, either online or locally, for individuals with similar experiences. Connecting with others who understand what you're going through can provide emotional support and valuable insights.
-
Advocate for Your Health: If you continue to feel dismissed, consider seeking a second opinion or a specialist who looks at systemic symptoms comprehensively. Being persistent in pursuit of answers is crucial.
It’s important to find professionals who truly listen to your concerns and can help you navigate this challenging time. You’re not alone in this journey, and seeking support is a significant first step. Please reach out if you need further assistance or more specific advice.
Related Questions
Enigmatic Skin Condition
I’ve recently stumbled upon this community and wanted to share my experience! Here's my story: - At the age of 22, I noticed peculiar marks appearing on both of my hands. They weren’t itchy or red, but there was some slight swelling in my hands. - I felt perfectly healthy otherwise, without any additional symptoms. - These marks extended from my fingertips to about the halfway point on my forearms. - Over a span of two weeks, they began as subtle symptoms beneath the skin and eventually surfaced, with some areas developing blisters. - Prior to this, I had experienced chicken pox as a child at three years old and shingles on my back at the age of 19. Since then, I have had no other skin-related problems, and I’ve never dealt with cold sores, warts, or anything similar. - I consulted a general practitioner at the time, who speculated that it might be stress-related as he eliminated the possibility of contact dermatitis. This was shortly after I graduated from college about a month earlier. This incident occurred back in 2008, and I haven't encountered anything like it again. I would appreciate any insights or thoughts you may have!
Seeking Help for a Skin Rash
Age: 20 years Gender: Male Height: 5 feet 10 inches Weight: 130 pounds Ethnicity: Asian Length of Symptoms: Approximately one week, although the larger area of irritation has been developing for about three weeks. Affected Area: My arms Medical History: No known health issues Current Treatments: Not taking any medications at the moment.
Evaluating a Suspicious Spot on the Skin
At 33 years old, I've recently observed a pale spot developing on my forehead. This soft, raised area has been increasing in size rapidly and was not present back in October. I've noticed it subtly emerging in some earlier photos as well, highlighting the change over time. The spot does not exhibit any symptoms like itching, scabbing, or flaking. During summer months, I do spend considerable time outdoors, but I consistently apply sunscreen for protection. My esthetics specialist, whom I consult every other month for facials, mentioned that this spot does not appear to be related to acne and does not seem to contain any fluid or resemble milia. Given my upcoming medical appointments, I’m attempting to determine which ones should be addressed first. I discontinued spironolactone two months ago for managing elevated androgen levels and borderline polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), after being on it for approximately two years. Additionally, I stopped taking Wegovy one month ago as my husband and I are intending to try for a child following the appropriate waiting period. Currently, I am not taking any vitamins, medications, or supplements.
Struggling with Long-Term Nasal Congestion
**Patient Overview:** 21-year-old male For the past three to four years, I've been dealing with persistent nasal congestion, which has been quite troublesome. Despite seeking help from two different ENT specialists and trying various medications, including multiple nasal sprays and drops, I haven't found any lasting relief. Unfortunately, the treatments have been largely ineffective. Both an endoscopy and a CT scan yielded no definitive results. The only temporary relief I've experienced comes from certain nasal sprays that I used excessively, leading to a rebound effect that made my condition worse. One of the ENT doctors indicated that there weren’t any viable solutions for my issue, while the other recommended consulting an allergist for further assistance. **Allergy Testing Results:** - **Immunoglobulin Level:** 283.4 IU/ml - Identified allergies include: - House Dust Mites: 4.90 IU/ml (Dermatophagoides farinae) - House Dust: 2.00 IU/ml (Hollister Stier) - Storage Mites: 1.30 IU/ml (Glycyphagus domesticus) - Casein: 1.10 IU/ml - Chickpea: 0.98 IU/ml - Sesame Seed: 1.22 IU/ml - Milk: 1.50 IU/ml - Egg: 1.30 IU/ml - Yogurt: 0.46 IU/ml - Common Ragweed: 1.20 IU/ml **CT Scan Findings:** - **MSCT Scan of the Paranasal Sinuses (Plain):** - **Nasal Cavity:** The septum is nearly central, but there are hypertrophied middle and inferior turbinates on the right side leading to fullness in the right nasal cavity. Concha bullosa is observed bilaterally. - **Bilateral Sinuses & Drainage Pathways:** Sinuses appear normal and the bilateral ostiomeatal complex is also normal. - There are enlarged soft tissue shadows of the adenoids measuring 32 x 14.5 mm, which may be causing mild to moderate narrowing of the air passage. - Bilateral tonsilloliths are present with no collection, and there is a need to rule out the possibility of chronic or recurrent tonsillitis. - **Anatomical Variations:** The Vidian nerve canals are normal, with no Haller or Onodi cells observed; Keros type II olfactory fossae are present on both sides. **Impression:** The findings suggest mild adenoid hypertrophy and nasal cavity fullness due to enlarged turbinates. Thankfully, the sinuses and ostiomeatal complex appear to be normal. Although I cannot recall the specific names of the medications and sprays prescribed—due to difficulty in reading my doctor’s handwriting—I conducted some research and learned that many of these medications are typically used for allergic rhinitis. Now, my physician has suggested that I consider starting immunotherapy and advised me to see an allergist. I find myself uncertain about the next steps, and I am seeking guidance on how to proceed.
Unusual Skin Changes After Showering
I'm a 33-year-old female and I'm curious if anyone has experienced something similar. After I shower, I often notice a reddish rash appearing on my legs. However, today there were also numerous purple spots alongside the typical redness. Unfortunately, I can't upload images here, but I'll share them in the comments for those interested in what I'm describing.