What Could Be Causing My Arm Issues?
I’m a 40-year-old female living in the US, with a history of occasional tobacco and alcohol use (about 2-3 times a month), and no illegal drug usage. Standing 5’3” and weighing 200 lbs, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes last year and have been actively trying to lose weight. Currently, I’m on a five-month course of Moujaro (5 mg), during which I have shed 20 pounds. My blood sugar levels have been stable, and I received an A1c result of 4.5 just last week. Besides having psoriasis, I’m not dealing with any other significant health issues. I attend therapy sessions weekly and take medications including Zoloft, propranolol, and Valium as prescribed by my psychiatrist. I will share photographs in the comments below; the left image was taken Monday morning, while the one on the right was from this morning, just five days apart. Any identifying details, such as tattoos, rings, and nails have been edited out. On Sunday, I felt quite unwell, experiencing body aches and a fever that peaked at 102. Taking Tylenol and Advil didn’t alleviate my discomfort, so I went to sleep early. However, I was awakened early Monday morning due to intense throbbing in my arm. I’m unsure as to what caused this situation, as I hadn’t fallen or been injured. My husband encouraged me to seek medical attention at the ER. Although my fever had subsided, I was admitted for monitoring and additional tests. They conducted Doppler ultrasounds on the veins and arteries of my left arm, which returned normal results, along with a negative x-ray. A CT scan was also performed, and I’ll provide a screenshot of that report in the comments. Over the next 24 hours, I was given IV antibiotics, and on Tuesday morning, I requested to be discharged, which was granted after I was prescribed a 10-day course of oral doxycycline. While the pain in my arm has significantly diminished, its appearance is still concerning. During my stay, I had minimal interaction with a doctor—approximately 90 seconds within a 24-hour period. I noticed that although they took my blood multiple times during my visit, no one discussed the results with me. Upon reviewing my medical records today, I found that aside from my ALT level being in the 60s, my lab results were mostly normal except for two notable exceptions: a CK level at 1100 and a platelet count of 26,000 on Tuesday morning (down from 150,000 on Monday). Both of these levels were flagged as critical, yet there was no discussion regarding them with me. What type of follow-up should I pursue, if any? What could possibly be the issue with my arm? Does my CT report indicate anything unusual? I would appreciate any insights or advice. Thank you for your help!
Answers (1)
3/29/2025, 10:10:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experience; it sounds like a difficult situation. Based on what you've described, there are several factors at play that could be related to your arm issues, as well as your recent fever and lab results.
Key Points
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Potential Causes for Arm Issues:
- Infection or Inflammation: Given the recent fever and your medical history, your arm pain may be related to an underlying infection or inflammatory condition.
- Recent Lab Results: The elevated CK (creatine kinase) and low platelet count could indicate muscle damage or an inflammatory response and might need to be explored further.
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Follow-Up Importance: The critical lab results should not be overlooked. The lack of communication about these findings is concerning and warrants further follow-up.
Explanation
- Creatine Kinase (CK): This enzyme is released when there's muscle damage. Elevation can happen due to various reasons, including trauma, intense exercise, infections, or inflammation.
- Platelet Count: A low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can be caused by infections, bone marrow issues, or certain medications and can also lead to increased bleeding risk.
Immediate Actions
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Schedule Follow-Up Appointments:
- With Your Primary Care Provider: Discuss your arm symptoms, the lab results (especially the CK and platelet levels), and any lingering concerns about infection or inflammation.
- Possibly a Hematologist: Given the low platelet count, it may be beneficial to consult a blood specialist if your primary provider recommends it.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of any changes in your arm’s appearance, pain, or function. Note any new symptoms, such as fatigue, bruising, or unusual bleeding.
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Reassess Medication:
- Discuss with your doctor the potential implications of your medications (including doxycycline, Zoloft, and others) on your blood count and any interactions.
Conclusion
It’s essential to engage with your healthcare providers about these critical lab results, your arm concerns, and ensure a thorough evaluation to address potential underlying issues. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself—consider bringing a list of your questions and concerns to your next appointment. This proactive approach can lead to clearer answers regarding your health status.
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