Constant Flu-like Soreness After Loss
20-year-old, 5’3”, weighing 130 pounds. I have a potential diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Since I was around 12 or 13, five of my thoracic vertebrae have been fused, resulting in a condition known as kyphosis. Thankfully, there hasn’t been any significant progression since that time. However, I do not have any fusion in my sacroiliac joint, which has prevented a definitive diagnosis. Until last year, these issues caused minimal discomfort. Here's what has been going on: Last year, I lost my mother unexpectedly to cancer. During her final month, I was by her side in the hospital around the clock, often sleeping in a recliner and rarely leaving her room. Following her passing and my return from the hospital, I began experiencing various health concerns. **Extreme Fatigue:** If I don't set an alarm, I find myself sleeping for 12 to 15 hours. My sleep is profoundly deep, to the point where waking up feels like being pulled from underwater. I suspect I fall into REM sleep quite quickly. Occasionally, I’ll take short naps lasting about 20 to 30 minutes and I wake with vivid memories of my dreams. Unlike typical depressive fatigue, I truly feel worn out all the time. **Unusual Pain:** Any form of exercise, even something as simple as walking a mile, triggers flare-ups. Occasionally, these flares occur without any apparent cause. On average, I endure one to two flare-ups each month that can linger for approximately a week. The sensation is akin to the aches and skin hypersensitivity experienced after receiving a vaccine or during a flu illness. Initially, I attributed it to the suspected AS, but the pain isn't localized to my back or neck; it affects my entire body, particularly my legs and feet, making walking painful and laborious. Generally, I manage fine while working, but the discomfort tends to intensify afterward, leaving me unable to engage in much of anything. Today, after receiving a meningitis booster shot, I am now experiencing the same flare-like symptoms—soreness and sensitive skin—making it difficult to tell the difference between the two. Before my mother’s passing, I wasn’t afflicted by any of these symptoms, and now I find it challenging to maintain normalcy. During my appointment today, the doctor mentioned fibromyalgia, which, to my understanding, is often linked to psychological factors. I've always believed that I had a high threshold for pain. Initially, I thought my issues might stem from sleeping in the hospital chair or catching an illness while there, but it has been a year since my mother's death. Could the emotional stress from losing her actually be contributing to all these symptoms? Thank you for your insights.
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 8:31:05 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm very sorry to hear about your loss and the challenges you're currently facing. It's understandable to feel overwhelmed when coping with both physical and emotional health concerns, especially after such a significant life event.
Main Points
Your symptoms—extreme fatigue, widespread pain, and emotional distress—could potentially be linked to several factors, including the emotional stress from your mother's passing, underlying conditions like ankylosing spondylitis (AS), or possibly fibromyalgia. It's important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of your health.
Explanation
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Emotional Impact: Losing a loved one can lead to profound emotional stress, which can manifest physically in various ways. Symptoms like fatigue and widespread pain may result from the stress and grief you are experiencing.
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Physical Symptoms: Chronic pain and fatigue can also occur in conditions like ankylosing spondylitis and fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain and can sometimes be triggered or worsened by emotional stress. The deep sleep and vivid dreams you describe might indicate a sleep disruption pattern related to your emotional state.
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Fatigue and Flare-ups: The extreme fatigue and flare-ups of pain can be related to overexertion, stress, or possibly an immune response to recent vaccinations, as seen with your meningitis booster shot.
Next Steps
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Prioritize Self-Care:
- Sleep Hygiene: Maintain a regular sleep schedule. Consider ensuring your sleep environment is comfortable, avoid screens before bedtime, and practice relaxation techniques.
- Gentle Movement: Try gentle stretching or low-impact activities (like swimming or yoga) that don’t exacerbate your pain. Listen to your body and rest when needed.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when flare-ups occur, their intensity, and potential triggers. This can help in discussions with healthcare professionals.
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Emotional Support:
- Consider talking to a mental health professional or grief counselor who can provide support as you navigate your emotions and physical symptoms. Group therapy or support groups can also be beneficial.
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Communicate with Your Doctor:
- Discuss your symptoms and their potential links to grief with your healthcare provider. If fibromyalgia is considered, ask about management options that might help alleviate your symptoms, including lifestyle modifications or medication as deemed appropriate.
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Stay Engaged:
- Find small activities that you enjoy and can manage without triggering symptoms. This could help maintain a sense of normalcy and joy.
It may feel overwhelming, but taking small, actionable steps can help you regain a sense of control over your health. Please remember that it's okay to seek help, both physically and emotionally, during this time.
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