Struggling with Possible Autoimmune Conditions?
Having recently undergone blood tests, I wanted to share my experience. Last November, I relocated to a new city to pursue what I consider my ideal job. Shortly after, I began taking Vilazodone (5 mg) as I started to feel the onset of depression. In the past year, I have grappled with overwhelming fatigue, hair thinning, unintentional weight loss, persistent chest pain, and heart palpitations, all of which have steadily intensified. The chest pain, in particular, has become increasingly troubling. To address my concerns, I scheduled a telehealth consultation. While most of my results returned normal, I was alarmed to find that both my calcium and albumin levels were elevated. Upon reviewing a blood test from approximately ten months ago, I noticed a significant drop in my platelet count—around 44 points—between then and now (late March 2025). Is this something I should be worried about? Additionally, my TSH level has risen from 1.64 to 2.73 over the same period. I am currently taking spironolactone and a low dose of Adderall (10 mg) due to my severe ADHD, yet I maintain a healthy lifestyle by drinking plenty of water and consuming three nutritious meals each day, primarily whole foods. My workout routine has been consistent for over two years. Despite this, I’m starting to feel like a hypochondriac. The symptoms are real and it’s hard not to believe that something might be wrong. Lately, I've been experiencing excessive swelling upon waking up. In my family history, my grandmother suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and was only diagnosed in her thirties. As a 25-year-old who has dropped from a size 6 to a 00, I’m at a loss about what steps to take next. While I strive to trust my doctors, I’m feeling overwhelmed, almost to the point of questioning my own sanity. To further evaluate my situation, my doctor has recommended that I see a rheumatologist and undergo chest X-rays as well.
Answers (1)
4/3/2025, 4:50:50 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re going through a very challenging time, and it’s completely valid to feel overwhelmed by your symptoms and health concerns. Your experience with fatigue, chest pain, swelling, and changes in your blood test results are significant, and it’s good that you’re actively seeking answers. Here’s a summary of your situation and some steps that can help you manage your health concerns.
Main Points
- You are experiencing a range of concerning symptoms, including fatigue, hair thinning, weight loss, persistent chest pain, and swelling.
- Your recent blood tests show elevated calcium and albumin levels, and a notable drop in platelet count, along with an increase in TSH levels.
- Family history of autoimmune conditions (like rheumatoid arthritis) may be influencing your concerns.
Explanation
Your complex symptoms can be seen in various conditions, including autoimmune disorders, deficiencies, or effects from medications. Elevated calcium and albumin levels, along with changes in platelet count, could indicate underlying issues that require further evaluation. Rising TSH levels may suggest changes in thyroid function, which can also contribute to fatigue and other symptoms.
It’s important to remember that while you’re feeling significant distress, seeking help from healthcare providers is a proactive step towards understanding your health.
Next Steps
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Follow Up with the Rheumatologist: Keep the appointment with the rheumatologist as recommended. They will help evaluate the possibility of autoimmune diseases given your symptoms and family history.
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Chest X-rays Task: Complete the chest X-rays to rule out any structural or inflammatory issues in your chest that could explain your chest pain and palpitations.
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your symptoms, including your mood, fatigue levels, and any physical changes. Note any patterns or triggers. This information will be invaluable for your healthcare team.
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Manage Stress and Mental Health: It’s understandable to feel stressed given your symptoms. Consider incorporating stress-relief practices like mindfulness, yoga, or gentle exercise, as these can have positive effects on both physical and mental health.
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Review Medications: Since you are on multiple medications (Vilazodone, spironolactone, Adderall), discuss with your doctor how they may impact your symptoms or laboratory results.
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Monitor Nutritional Intake: While you mention a healthy diet, consider discussing your weight loss and dietary patterns with a nutritionist to ensure you're meeting all your nutritional needs.
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Stay Communicative: Keep an open line of communication with your healthcare providers. If your symptoms worsen or change, let them know as soon as possible.
It’s perfectly okay to advocate for your health and seek clarity on your condition. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and there are professionals who want to support you in finding answers. Take things one step at a time, and be gentle with yourself.
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