Could My Recent Improvement Be Just Psychological?
At 21 and having transitioned for 15 months while supplementing with vitamin B12 and D, I've approached this post with a fresh perspective for the fourth time. My previous diagnoses include low mood, PTSD, and anxiety, alongside a former diagnosis of EUPD, which I no longer meet the criteria for. I mention this as it may play a role in my current feelings. Since I was 12, I've dealt with various troubling symptoms—persistent fatigue, joint discomfort, and most recently, back pain. My earlier lifestyle choices were far from healthy; I had a poor diet, got minimal exercise aside from walking home from school, and experienced paranoia that contributed to gastrointestinal issues. These factors eventually led to a deficiency in vitamin B12, which I believe was the starting point for my symptoms. Fifteen months ago, I entered the workforce, engaging in retail where I spend around six hours on my feet, four times each week. Around eight months back, I introduced B12 and D supplements into my routine, finding some slight relief. Unfortunately, my condition worsened to the point where I had to decline extra hours due to overwhelming malaise. Recently, after a particularly sleepless night caused by pain, I began documenting my symptoms. I learned that the discomfort in my back and hips intensifies when I’m at rest, while prolonged working hours exacerbate the fatigue, which is incredibly frustrating. To ease the pain, I rely on ibuprofen, take warm baths, and incorporate daily exercise; however, I haven't noticed any swelling in my hips; they feel only slightly warm. Last week, I reached out to my GP, and the improvement I've experienced in the days following has been remarkable. Now, I consider my pain level to be nearly negligible at 1 out of 10, a stark contrast from the 3 out of 10 I was accustomed to over recent months. After sitting for two days, my hip pain has significantly diminished, and I feel less unwell overall. This sudden surge in well-being without any medical intervention has led me to question whether I might be exaggerating normal sensations or if my mind is simply playing tricks on me. Could this be a valid concern?
Answers (1)
4/1/2025, 2:01:16 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's great to hear that you're experiencing significant improvement in your symptoms. Your observations about the positive changes and how they relate to your lifestyle and well-being are important. Let's break down your concerns and clarify your situation.
Main Points
- Your recent improvement in symptoms might be influenced by various factors, including psychological elements, lifestyle changes, and the natural course of symptom fluctuation.
- It's essential to pay attention to your body and how it reacts to both rest and activity, as done in your symptom documentation.
Explanation
The mind and body are intricately connected, and it's common for psychological factors like anxiety and mood to influence physical sensations and pain levels. Improvements in mood, stress levels, or lifestyle adjustments (like starting a new job and adjusting your routine) can lead to better pain management and overall well-being.
Your documented patterns suggest that physical discomfort improves with rest, and you're actively engaging in exercises and self-care, which are critical to your recovery. Reduced pain may not just be psychological; it could also reflect a combination of improved lifestyle choices and the body responding well to more balanced activity levels.
Next Steps
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Continue Tracking Symptoms: Keep documenting your symptoms daily. Note when your pain worsens and improves, and any correlations with activity levels, stress, or rest. This will help you to understand what might be influencing your health better.
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Maintain a Balanced Routine: Continue with light to moderate exercise that feels comfortable for you. Incorporate stretching and mobility work, which can alleviate joint and back stiffness. Ensure that you also prioritize rest when needed.
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Monitor Emotional Health: Since you have a history of PTSD, anxiety, and mood fluctuations, consider mindfulness techniques or talking to someone about your experiences. This can help you become more aware of how your mental state impacts your physical well-being.
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Consult Your GP Regularly: Share your symptom diary with your GP during your next visit. If you notice significant changes or have concerns about fluctuations, a medical professional can offer deeper insights into potential physical or psychological causes.
You’re making strides in your health journey, and that’s commendable. It's normal to question the impact of psychological factors, but remember that both mind and body play crucial roles in your recovery. If you need more tailored guidance, feel free to reach out.
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