Exploring the Possibility of Autoimmunity
Hello everyone, I’m a 25-year-old female and I have struggled with a persistent rash on my lips for four years. My dermatologist previously mentioned it could be an allergy, yet despite diligently keeping a food diary, eliminating all skincare and makeup products, and solely using Vaseline for several months, I haven’t been able to pinpoint any specific triggers. The flare-ups occur unpredictably, although I’ve noticed that consuming spicy or acidic foods tends to exacerbate the condition. Unfortunately, each of my healthcare providers seemed dismissive, merely advising me to apply hydrocortisone without attempting to investigate further, leading me to resign myself to this issue. Things took a turn after I contracted COVID-19 for the first time in January. During the illness, I noticed that the rash began to spread around my mouth, as well as appearing on my wrist. This flare-up is intensely painful, with a burning sensation, and is accompanied by severe itching. It disrupts my sleep due to the discomfort, hinders my ability to eat anything, and even opening my mouth has become difficult as the corners of my lips are cracking and bleeding. This ordeal has profoundly affected my quality of life, leaving me feeling genuinely miserable and struggling with the desire to carry on. I finally managed to get referrals to consult with another dermatologist and a rheumatologist, especially after receiving several comments suggesting that it appears autoimmune in nature, although no concrete diagnosis has been provided. The wait for appointments feels endless, and I am increasingly eager for any leads or recommendations on how to move forward. While steroids provide temporary relief, the symptoms inevitably return once I finish the medication. Additionally, I have been on hormonal birth control for the past ten years and take Adderall for managing my ADHD. I don’t engage in smoking or drinking.
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 6:40:33 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds incredibly frustrating and distressing to deal with a persistent rash, especially with the additional discomfort and impact on your daily life. Autoimmune conditions can be complex, and your situation warrants deeper exploration. Let’s break this down into manageable steps while we wait for your upcoming consultations.
Summary of Key Points:
- Your ongoing rash could potentially have an autoimmune origin, especially given its spread and associated symptoms after your COVID-19 illness.
- It's important to continue seeking answers while managing symptoms effectively.
Explanation:
A rash that is persistent and evolves over time, especially after a significant illness like COVID-19, may suggest an underlying condition that needs to be evaluated further. Autoimmune disorders can involve various symptoms, including rashes, and can sometimes be triggered by infections. The discomfort you’re facing is valid, and it’s understandable that you feel overwhelmed.
Next Steps:
-
Track Your Symptoms:
- Continue to keep a detailed diary, noting any changes in your rash, the severity of your symptoms, food intake, and any medications you take. This can be invaluable for your healthcare providers when you have your upcoming appointments.
-
Symptom Management:
- While you await your consultations, continue using hydrocortisone as directed for flare-ups, but consider switching to a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Vaseline is great, but a cream with additional soothing ingredients (like ceramides) could help.
- You mentioned that spicy and acidic foods exacerbate your rash; it's advisable to avoid these until you have clearer guidance from your doctors.
-
Consider Other Triggers:
- In addition to food, consider environmental factors (like cold weather, allergens, or stress) that may worsen your symptoms. Identifying these can be helpful when discussing your condition with your specialists.
-
Stay Connected:
- Don’t hesitate to reach out to your primary care provider for interim assistance or additional referrals if you're concerned about the wait for your dermatology and rheumatology appointments. Sometimes, they can expedite referrals or explore other treatment options.
-
Use Support Networks:
- Engaging with online support groups or communities dealing with similar issues can provide emotional support and practical tips that others have found helpful.
Remember, you deserve to find relief and understand what’s happening with your condition. It’s okay to feel frustrated, but with persistent follow-up and tracking, you’ll be better equipped to discuss your situation with your specialists. Don’t hesitate to reach out for emotional support during this time, as you’re not alone.
Related Questions
Understanding the Increased Pain in My Foot While Reclining
At 30 years old, I am nearing the five-week mark since undergoing surgery on my metatarsals. I've encountered a troubling issue: I can’t seem to find comfort when lying down, whether it’s with my foot raised or lying flat. My pain level escalates to a severe 10 out of 10, unless my foot is making contact with the floor or I dangle my leg off the side of the bed so that my toes touch the ground. Is this situation typical for someone in my circumstances? Are there any suggestions that might assist me in getting a better night's sleep?
Understanding Possible Seizure Triggers and Recurrence Risks
Health Background: I am a 21-year-old female, standing at 169 cm and weighing 65 kg. Over the past three years, I have been using oral contraceptives. As of this morning, I started taking 25 mcg of levothyroxine along with a weekly vitamin D supplement of 0.266 mg. Recently, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and found to have a vitamin D deficiency that I suspect has existed for the last three years. I do not consume alcohol or smoke, and I can confirm I am not pregnant. Two years ago, I experienced a mild concussion. I currently reside in Spain. A couple of months back, in mid-December, I blacked out twice. The second occurrence took place while I was at the doctor’s office after seeking urgent medical care for the initial incident. Following the second episode, I underwent a CT scan and an EKG, both of which returned normal results. Further tests, as directed by my physician, revealed a critical vitamin D deficiency and hypothyroidism; however, he expressed doubt that either of these conditions led to my loss of consciousness. I was then referred to a neurologist, and I am presently awaiting an appointment. Although the waiting period is lengthy, my doctor indicated that I should receive priority for scheduling, although the exact timeframe remains uncertain. The referral document summarized my events, labeling the second episode (which the physician witnessed) as a potential seizure devoid of tonic-clonic movements—a revelation that took me by surprise. After regaining consciousness, I felt extremely disoriented and terrified, struggling to process what was happening. I have no prior history of seizures, epilepsy, or any related conditions, and there is no known family history of these issues. If this indeed was a seizure, what might have triggered it? Additionally, what is the likelihood of experiencing another one? Since that time, I have not had any further incidents, but I have experienced moments where I felt a sense of impending doom, which I managed to overcome. I intend to wait for the neurologist's evaluation, but the uncertainty surrounding a possible neurological condition is quite distressing. Thank you for any insight you can provide!
Persistent Pain in Right Shoulder and Arm After Lifting
Hello, everyone! I’m a 23-year-old male and have been engaged in weightlifting for several years now. Recently, I’ve been struggling with ongoing discomfort in my right shoulder and arm, which I haven’t been able to accurately identify. The pain manifests during particular movements, especially with lateral raises or when my arm is raised to shoulder level while rotating my wrist. Certain pressing and pulling activities can also provoke this discomfort. Rather than feeling sharp, it’s a deep, nagging sensation that sometimes seems localized in the front area of the shoulder or at the biceps tendon, and at other times it feels more like it’s situated between the shoulder and upper arm. Fortunately, there’s no numbness or tingling involved. This issue began while I was working out. I decided to take a break for around two months, but when I returned, the pain persisted. After consulting a physician, I was diagnosed with bicipital tendinitis. Since then, I’ve reduced my upper-body workouts, completely steering clear of shoulder exercises and heavy lifting, and have begun a gentle rehabilitation regimen focusing on external rotations, pendulum movements, and scapular exercises. Despite adhering to this routine for about a week, I haven’t experienced any noticeable improvement. Is it typical for this type of tendon injury to require an extended period for recovery? At what point should I consider diagnostic imaging, such as an ultrasound or MRI? Additionally, are there frequent rehabilitation errors that might impede the healing process? I appreciate your insights in advance!
INTENSE Spine Discomfort, Breathing Difficulties, Muscle Twitches, and Sweating
To elaborate on the situation mentioned in the title, I’ve been experiencing unusual muscle twitches and spasms for the past few days, along with some discomfort in my back. However, today, I felt an unexpected sharp pain shoot through my spine, which has left my legs feeling numb and made it impossible for me to sit up straight. Additionally, I’ve been dealing with cold sweats for the last hour and struggling to breathe properly. Perhaps I’m just overanalyzing things and it’s a common occurrence, but the intensity of the pain is overwhelming—it's truly unbearable. I’m shaking quite a bit, and unfortunately, my parents aren’t responding to my attempts to reach them for help. I have a history of a chronic heart condition and arthritis, yet I’ve never experienced pain this severe, especially in my spine. For context, I am nearly 15 years old and female. My current medications include pain relievers, anxiety medication, beta blockers, and some vitamins, though those specifics may not be particularly relevant. I don’t smoke; however, I have tried vaping a few times, which might not matter much, but I thought it was worth mentioning as it was requested.
Understanding Atrial Fibrillation and Thyroid Issues: Variability in Cardioversion Decisions
Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for guidance regarding my mother’s current health situation, and I’d greatly appreciate any shared experiences or thoughts. **My mother's background:** - **Age**: 55 years - **Weight**: Recently dropped to 116 kg from 118 kg in just two days, likely due to diuretics. - **Health history**: Previously an underactive thyroid, undiagnosed and untreated, now presenting as overactive. - **Medications**: Currently taking thyroid medication and a beta-blocker (Rapiblock). **Current health status:** My mother has been hospitalized since Tuesday, experiencing **atrial fibrillation with heart rates exceeding 200** beats per minute due to her thyroid's hyperactivity. - The plan for cardioversion was initially settled on Tuesday. However, the following day, the medical team advised postponing it until her thyroid levels could be stabilized, believing that her heart rate would return to normal once her thyroid condition was managed. - Her **obesity** precludes her from undergoing a transthoracic echocardiogram, and due to her thyroid concerns, she cannot handle contrast dye (this has been a consistent issue for over four years). Therefore, the only feasible option was a **transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)**, which has yet to be performed. - She has been prescribed various medications including beta-blockers and thyroid treatments in the past. - On Friday, a doctor proposed proceeding with cardioversion; however, the attending senior physician objected. - Today (Saturday), another clinician has expressed a desire to move forward with cardioversion, having initiated a new medication, as the senior physician is unavailable. - **Communication has been unclear**, as we were notified of developments by a nurse rather than the physician in charge, causing confusion and anxiety. - Currently, only a **chest X-ray** is scheduled, and the TEE remains unaddressed. **My inquiries are as follows:** 1. Is it common for medical professionals to have varying opinions and frequently revise medication or treatment plans like cardioversion? 2. Is it safe to conduct cardioversion in the absence of a TEE? I presumed that this was a standard procedure to exclude the presence of blood clots. 3. Is it usual practice to have only a chest X-ray prior to moving ahead with cardioversion? 4. How typical is it for patients or their families to not be directly informed about treatment changes and learn about them through nursing staff instead? I recognize that this cannot substitute for professional medical advice. I’m simply trying to discern whether these circumstances are typical or if we should express our concerns more assertively with the healthcare facility. Thank you for your insights!