Concerns About Possible Poisoning
Hello to the Reddit community! I’ll do my best to keep this brief despite the lengthy circumstances surrounding my situation. Since October 2022, I've been experiencing a series of neurological issues, and by early 2024, these evolved into neuromuscular symptoms. I started documenting these occurrences in March 2024 as I felt increasingly unwell. With my background as a medical laboratory scientist pursuing a graduate degree in biology and chemistry, I have a fair understanding of relevant tests and potential pathologies linked to my symptoms. There’s a history of autoimmunity in my family, and I suffer from psoriasis. Skin reactions became common during this period as well. My Myasthenia Gravis antibodies and ANA tests returned normal results. An incident in October 2022 involving unauthorized entry into my apartment coincided with the onset of phantom scents. A couple of months later, I began experiencing severe and unusual mid-back pain for the first time. In January and February 2024, I noticed muscle fatigue predominantly in the proximal areas of my arms and legs. My limbs often felt tight, reminiscent of hardened chocolate coating ice cream, accompanied by persistent vibrations in my legs – akin to standing on railroad tracks with a train barreling toward me. This was soon followed by breathlessness. At one point, I developed a drooping eyelid, which has twitched intermittently since mid-2024. Fatigue in my neck and shoulders sometimes prevented me from holding my head up. As of March/April 2024, I observed widespread muscle twitching, along with paresthesia in my lower legs, which intensified while washing dishes in the kitchen. During those moments, I often felt flushed in my upper chest, neck, and face, with a sensation akin to a beach ball inflating within my chest. I also dealt with purpura and broken blood vessels on my face and upper body (telangiectasia). Last year, I met a woman from the Philippines, and I traveled there on February 4 of this year; my last recorded neuromuscular symptom was noted on February 7. Currently, while some neurological symptoms persist, their intensity has diminished significantly. The tightness I once felt in my limbs has disappeared, and I’ve experienced only slight leg vibrations when sleep-deprived. Breathing has normalized, and I can walk a block without excessive fatigue. Energy levels have noticeably improved. However, returning to that apartment makes me uneasy. What was supposed to be a two-week visit turned into two months, and I’m due back home in early June. My rent payments have been delayed as I’ve been using my funds for living expenses in the Philippines and preparations for my engagement. My landlord has issued a warning that failure to pay a specified amount by April 4 would lead to eviction proceedings. I strongly suspect I may have been subjected to poisoning, a topic I won’t go into detail about here. However, given the timing, It seems plausible that I might have been exposed to a slow-acting poison. While I recognize the possibility of environmental toxins affecting my health, the suspicion of organophosphate exposure feels particularly concerning. I've pondered contacting the Department of Health in my state or perhaps a law enforcement agency; I’m uncertain whether to approach local, state, or federal authorities regarding this matter. Will toxins or poisons, notably organophosphates, still be detectable in my blood or tissues two months after exposure? Lastly, is there any legal recourse available to prevent my eviction aside from addressing the overdue rent? I’m currently experiencing financial constraints, and I want to ensure I do not lose the opportunity to uncover the truth of my experiences and identify any potential culprits. Thank you for taking the time to read my account. Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated.
Answers (1)
4/3/2025, 7:10:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that you are experiencing complex neurological and muscular symptoms and have concerns about potential poisoning, specifically organophosphate exposure. Your symptoms, the timeline, and the circumstances surrounding them certainly warrant a careful assessment and action.
Key Points:
- Current symptoms appear to have improved somewhat, but concerns about past exposure to toxins remain.
- Organophosphates may still be detectable, though timing and specifics of testing are crucial.
- You have financial and housing stability issues that need addressing.
Explanation:
Given your medical background, you’re likely familiar with the significance of your symptoms and their potential connection to exposure. Organophosphates are a class of chemicals found in some pesticides and can affect the nervous system. Typically, signs of poisoning can manifest quickly, though chronic exposure or lower levels can lead to delayed or subtle symptoms. Symptoms you describe, like muscle twitching, tightness in limbs, and both neurological and dermal responses, may relate to several factors, including environmental toxins, autoimmune reactions, or even stress.
Regarding the identification of organophosphates, testing is relevant but generally requires timely access to a laboratory. While some metabolites may remain in the body for a while, it's recommended to consult with a toxicologist for definitive testing.
Next Steps:
-
Seek Medical Attention: Since you suspect chemical exposure, try to arrange for testing as soon as possible and discuss your concerns with a healthcare provider who is experienced in toxicology. Document all symptoms and their progression to aid in diagnosis.
-
Contact Health Authorities: Depending on your state, contacting the Department of Health can provide you with guidance on next steps for potential exposure. They may also assist with information on environmental assessments in your former residence.
-
Legal Considerations for Eviction:
- Know Your Rights: Investigate local tenant rights regarding eviction claims. Many states have protections for tenants, especially if financial issues stem from medical conditions.
- Seek Legal Aid: Consider contacting local legal aid services that can provide assistance with tenant rights or help negotiate with your landlord.
-
Monitor and Document Symptoms: Keep a journal of any ongoing symptoms or changes, including their intensity and potential triggers. This record can be invaluable when discussing your case with health professionals or authorities.
-
Explore Financial Options: Look into community resources that may provide financial assistance or social services that can help with rent and living costs while you navigate your health and housing situation.
Your health and well-being, both physically and financially, are paramount. Taking these steps can help you clarify your situation and seek appropriate support. If you have more questions or need deeper insights, feel free to reach out again.
Related Questions
Concern Over Possible Botulism Exposure: Seeking Guidance
Greetings, everyone! I'm a 37-year-old male, weighing approximately 80 kilograms and standing at about 1.75 meters tall. To provide some context, I'm currently visiting a friend in another country, but I don’t have any travel health insurance. My friend had to work through the weekend and encouraged me to help myself to whatever food I found in her refrigerator. Upon arriving, I discovered some gravy that appeared and smelled fine. I decided to prepare some frozen fries in the oven while simultaneously heating the gravy in a dish, which I placed in the oven at a temperature of around 225 degrees Celsius. Following the instructions, I set a timer for 20 minutes when cooking the fries. However, when the timer went off, the fries didn’t seem fully cooked. I opted to give them an additional 10 to 15 minutes to bake (the gravy was still on the bottom, and I had completely forgotten about it). Eventually, the fries emerged from the oven, slightly overdone, but I didn't mind. Upon pulling everything out, I noticed that the gravy had begun to burn and char during the process. Afterward, I proceeded to eat the fries along with some of the gravy, which had turned into a paste-like consistency. I later called my friend to catch up and mention what I had for dinner. To my dismay, she panicked when I mentioned the gravy, informing me that it was actually 12 days old and stored in a plastic container. Now I’m left worried about my situation. How serious is this? To provide additional context: - It’s been 12 hours since I consumed the food, and I have not yet experienced any symptoms. What signs should I be vigilant for? - I heated the gravy thoroughly; it was in the oven for over 30 minutes, and the edges of the plate were charred. - Prior to this meal, I hadn't eaten anything for nearly 24 hours, so I'm hoping my stomach's acidity might be a protective factor. I didn't consume a large amount, discarding approximately half of what I had. I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights regarding this situation.
Rash on the Dorsal Side of My Hands
A 24-year-old male, standing 5'3" and weighing 125 pounds, is not currently taking any medications. While I do not smoke, I am often exposed to secondhand smoke from those around me, and I have recently spent time in an environment where a significant amount of unpleasant smoke is produced due to casting activities. For approximately three weeks, I have been experiencing a rash on the backs of both my hands. I initially became aware of it after working on my car's engine. The rash has led to dryness and itching, and I took a photo after my shower today, highlighting the redness that has become particularly noticeable. What are some effective treatments for this condition?
Understanding Foam in Urine: When is it a Concern?
Age 24, I've observed a notable increase in the amount of foam in my urine over the past couple of years, compared to what I remember from before. About a year ago, I mentioned this to my primary care physician, who seemed somewhat dismissive of my concerns. Nonetheless, they proceeded to conduct a urinalysis, which returned normal results, indicating no elevated protein levels. I frequently undergo blood tests, and both my eGFR and creatinine levels typically fall within the normal range, although I did experience some fluctuations linked to a bout of mononucleosis a couple of years back, where my eGFR dipped near 70; it currently remains above 100. I suspect that changes in my urological function, likely from aging, are contributing to a stronger urine stream now than in my youth. The foam generally settles down after a few minutes, although occasionally it lingers longer than expected. I make a concerted effort to stay hydrated, even though I don’t always succeed, so I wonder if mild dehydration could partially account for the foaming. This concern is particularly relevant as I'm resuming strength training and planning to increase my protein consumption. I want to ensure that my kidneys are not overtaxed due to any potential underlying issues. Additionally, I have a history of taking 5 grams of creatine daily, paired with plenty of water, which makes me cautious about this, too. Is there a point at which foaming in urine is considered excessive, or does a specific threshold exist that I should be aware of?
Understanding Symptoms of Salmonella: What to Do Next
My boyfriend, who is 26, experienced a fever that peaked at approximately 99.5°F yesterday morning. Thankfully, after resting and taking NyQuil, his fever subsided by this morning. However, he has been dealing with severe abdominal pain and persistent diarrhea since last evening, which has not shown much improvement. He has been making frequent trips to the restroom, nearly every hour throughout the night and again today. While I initially thought he might be improving since the fever has decreased, I became alarmed upon noticing bright red blood in his stool and on the toilet paper after he wipes. It has been around 40 hours since the fever began, and my concern has heightened now that blood has appeared. I’ve come across some online information suggesting these symptoms might be typical for salmonella infections, and I’m uncertain whether we should seek medical attention immediately or if it’s advisable to wait another day or two to see if his condition improves. I realize that consulting a doctor as soon as possible would be the best course of action. However, he currently lacks insurance, which makes him hesitant to get checked right away. Any guidance on this matter would be greatly appreciated, thank you.
Navigating Alcohol Challenges
My partner has recently developed issues with alcohol. Over the past year, he has been consuming significant amounts—roughly two bottles of distilled spirits each week, in addition to beer. A decade ago, he struggled with inhalants and even faced near-fatal consequences, but he had maintained sobriety until he turned to drinking. He believes he has plenty of time before the effects of alcohol will manifest. How long can he continue this way before it becomes a serious problem? He is a 53-year-old male, weighing 325 pounds, standing at 5 feet 11 inches, and he is currently on medication for hypertension. Although we plan to separate later this year, it’s clear that this situation will have an impact on our three children.