OpenHealth Q&A

Get answered by medical professionals

Seeking Help and Insights

6/18/2025, 11:50:22 PMMale25-34

I’m reaching out for some advice and insights, as my health has been deteriorating over the last three months. It all began with an unexpected breast infection. After that, I noticed small purple spider veins appearing on both breasts, and then one morning, I found my right breast was swollen. I decided to drain the pus from the nipple myself, and the swelling subsided the next day, leaving me feeling okay. However, shortly after, I began experiencing symptoms such as chills, sweating, and a sensation of heaviness in my legs. I was prescribed antibiotics and completed four courses, but I never truly felt better. Although I’ve had some better days, the issues persist. During these past few months, I've noticed that the veins in my legs have become more pronounced, and I've developed a red rash on my arms. While the rash doesn’t particularly itch, my feet, hands, and wrists are incredibly itchy. I also experience numbness in my hands, which is quite concerning. Additionally, I've started coughing and have swollen lymph nodes in my neck. Though they aren't painful, I do experience an uncomfortable popping sensation when I turn my head, which can be painful. At 28, I find myself bedridden for most of the day, sleeping excessively. My energy levels are alarmingly low. Even minimal tasks, like doing the dishes, leave me feeling as if I might fracture something in my feet. I’m also dealing with rib pain. Recently, the situation escalated; while experiencing digestive issues and diarrhea, I became extremely nauseous and started sweating profusely, as if my skin was on fire. It was genuinely frightening. To top it all off, I’ve noticed that my uvula appears deviated. I’m feeling fearful and uncertain and could really use some answers from those who might understand what’s happening. Thank you for listening.

ArthritisLupusCrohn's Disease

Answers (1)

Cony

6/18/2025, 11:50:38 PM

OpenHealth AI

I'm truly sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing with your health, and your concerns are completely valid given the range of troubling symptoms you're experiencing. It seems that you've been through a lot in the past few months, especially with the combination of infections, vein issues, rashes, and fatigue. It's really important to prioritize your health and address these symptoms thoroughly.

Main Points:

  1. Symptoms Overview: Your symptoms point to possible systemic issues or underlying conditions that need further evaluation.
  2. Immediate Focus: Prioritize symptom management and monitoring, and consider potential underlying causes.
  3. Action Steps: Follow specific guidance on managing your symptoms and keep a log for future reference.

Explanation:

Your health situation is complex, with multiple symptoms that could indicate various underlying issues, including infections or other systemic conditions such as autoimmune diseases (like lupus) or gastrointestinal issues.

  • The appearance of spider veins and rashes, along with the numbness in your hands and feelings of heaviness in your legs, can be linked to vascular or inflammatory conditions.
  • Changes in your energy levels and the severe gastrointestinal distress you’ve described are also concerning and can stem from a number of causes, including chronic infections or inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s disease.
  • The deviation of your uvula and the swelling of your lymph nodes indicate that your body is responding to some form of inflammation or infection.

Next Steps:

  1. Track Your Symptoms: Start keeping a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any factors that seem to worsen or improve them. This will be valuable for any medical professional you share it with in the future.

  2. Hydration and Nutrition: Maintain proper hydration and try to eat a balanced diet to support your overall health. Lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables can help manage your energy levels.

  3. Gentle Activity: When possible, engage in gentle, low-impact activities such as walking or stretching to promote circulation without overexerting yourself. Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust accordingly.

  4. Skin Care: Use gentle moisturizers to help with itchiness and rashes. Take note of any products that might irritate your skin.

  5. Seek Comprehensive Evaluation: Given the combination of symptoms, it's crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare provider, ideally a specialist who can assess systemic conditions. Bring your symptom diary to help guide the consultation.

  6. Focus on Mental Health: Consider talking with someone about how you're feeling. The toll of persistent health issues can be significant, and even a mental health professional can help you cope better.

Remember, it’s crucial to address these concerns with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized care and further diagnostic testing if needed. You're not alone in this, and it's important to advocate for your health. Let me know if you need additional information or support.

Related Questions

Understanding Vestibular Paroxysmia

An ear, nose, and throat specialist has labeled my condition as vestibular migraine; however, I’m uncertain if that truly captures what I’m experiencing. My situation lacks the typical headache associated with migraines, and the bouts of dizziness are incredibly brief—lasting only a second or two, yet they occur multiple times each hour. I underwent an MRI due to experiencing pulsatile tinnitus and was informed that an artery is situated near my eardrum. Interestingly, I managed to lose 95 pounds, which coincided with the disappearance of both the pulsatile tinnitus and dizziness, though not necessarily at the same time. Unfortunately, over the past week, I have started to notice a return of the fleeting dizziness (or a feeling of imbalance), and for several weeks now, the pulsatile tinnitus has also resurfaced. What are your thoughts on this situation?

ArthritisMultiple SclerosisThyroid Disorders
Male25-34
28 minutes ago

Is Leg Swelling Typical for a 22-Year-Old Male?

I've observed that my legs tend to swell significantly after I've been on my feet for extended stretches during work. The swelling appears to diminish once I remove my socks, yet it still strikes me as unusual.

LupusCOPDInternal Medicine
Male25-34
38 minutes ago

Unexplained Illness or Just Weight Gain?

At the age of 41, I have been grappling with numerous health issues that seem to have intensified following the birth of my first child when I was 38. Over the past three weeks, I've noticed significant swelling in my lymph nodes, not only in my neck and beneath my collarbone but also at the back and sides of my head, in both armpits, and in my groin. These areas have become notably enlarged and hard, accompanied by discomfort. I often wake up in a sweat nearly every night, and my joints ache persistently. Additionally, I experience sharp, stabbing sensations in my breasts, as well as discomfort resembling pain in both kidneys. An imaging scan conducted last year revealed that I have cysts on my left kidney and a stone in my right. Specifically, one of the cysts on the left measured 3.8 x 4.6 cm. Furthermore, I have been diagnosed with mild fatty liver disease. Just last week, I underwent non-fasting blood tests and received the results, which I would appreciate any insights on. I am aware of my obesity, weighing between 210 to 220 pounds at a height of 5'3". I do not consume alcohol, vape moderately, and do not use any illegal substances. The only medication I take is Effexor; otherwise, my medications consist primarily of over-the-counter allergy treatments and a substantial amount of Advil and Aleve.

ArthritisCrohn's DiseaseThyroid Disorders
Male25-34
1 hour ago

Unexpected Onset of Madelung Deformity: A Personal Account

About four years ago, I unexpectedly developed Madelung deformity in both of my wrists. Now, at 30 years old, I reflect on the series of events leading up to this. Initially, I was struggling with bone pain, primarily around the thoracic region of my spine, accompanied by intermittent ulnar numbness in my arms. In my quest for answers, I consulted various specialists regarding my thoracic spine issues. Ultimately, I was diagnosed with epidural lipomatosis and arthritis in that area. Unfortunately, amid my frustrations, I neglected to mention my wrist issues. As a dedicated gym enthusiast, the diagnosis has been particularly challenging, as I can no longer engage in bench pressing or any activities that place pressure on my wrists. Interestingly, I did not experience any wrist deformities or pain during my childhood, even while participating in various sports such as football and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Recently, however, I have noticed an increase in discomfort; shifting my wrists has become a necessity for relief. I’m curious to know what might have led to the emergence of these symptoms in an adult like me. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

ArthritisCOPDInternal Medicine
Male25-34
1 hour ago

Longstanding Finger Pain and New Symptoms: Seeking Insights

I am a 45-year-old Caucasian woman, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 150 pounds. I don’t smoke, I don't use recreational drugs, and I drink socially on an infrequent basis. Apart from the topic of this discussion, I have been diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis and was very recently identified as having ADHD, for which I have been taking Adderall for about seven months. For roughly the past two decades, I have been dealing with a unique issue. I cannot recall experiencing this pain during my childhood or teenage years. Specifically, there is a tender spot located on the inside of the first joint of my left ring finger that, when it is bumped—even lightly—produces an intense, sharp pain similar to hitting one’s funny bone. This spot can be found at the 5:00 mark relative to the lower right edge of my fingernail, situated approximately an inch away. I can also replicate this discomfort by applying pressure to that area; if someone were to do this for me, it would quickly become unbearable. Visually and to the touch, the finger appears entirely normal, and I have no memory of having injured it. To cope over the years, I have been exceedingly cautious to avoid any accidental bumps. However, around two to three years ago, I began experiencing additional symptoms, which I will outline below: 1. I occasionally feel a mild throbbing pain in my hand, particularly at night, although it sometimes occurs during the day. This pain is located about an inch above my wrist, perfectly aligned with the sensitive area on my finger. 2. I have had around 30 to 40 isolated incidents of sudden, sharp sensations in the finger that coincide with similar zaps on the left side of my face or scalp. 3. Recently, starting this winter, if the fingertip gets cold—even when I’m indoors at a slightly cooler temperature—I experience the same kind of pain as if it has been struck, although it’s less severe. The only way I can find relief is by warming the finger in my mouth. I’ve tried waiting for the discomfort to dissipate on its own, but if it doesn’t resolve within a minute, I resort to warming it myself. A recent x-ray indicated the presence of "mild bone spurs" at the joint, yet my physician seems puzzled by the situation. I would appreciate any insights or suggestions regarding these symptoms. Thank you!

ArthritisMultiple SclerosisFibromyalgia
Male25-34
1 hour ago