Feeling lost and desperate: Seeking insights
Hello everyone, For several months, I’ve been battling a range of puzzling health issues, and this time, I'd like to share the complete picture. Previously, I’ve only revealed fragments of my experience online, which always left me feeling like crucial details were missing. I’ve made an effort to compile everything for better feedback this time around. I’m a 25-year-old man, expecting a baby in August. Naturally, I’m eager to maintain my health and well-being for my family’s sake. --- 🚩 The saga began: In April 2025, I visited my physician due to acute gastritis. During that appointment, I underwent blood tests along with an abdominal ultrasound. * Blood results: Mostly normal but showed low HDL levels and mildly elevated ALP (138). * Ultrasound revealed splenomegaly, with my spleen measuring 16 cm. * A follow-up ultrasound in May confirmed the spleen was still enlarged at 14.25 cm, though there were no other noted abnormalities (no swollen abdominal lymph nodes). * Additionally, I had a clear echocardiogram. Due to my anxiety and the lack of immediate concern from my doctor, I took the initiative to get an EBV antibody test in May. * Results: Positive for VCA IgG and negative for EBNA IgG. The last time I had a fever or cough was back in January 2025, prior to these ongoing issues. Since then, I haven’t experienced any fevers, even mild ones. --- 🧠 Current symptoms and concerns: 1. Lumps under the skin and lymph node worries: * I have a noticeable lump beneath my right jaw, likely in the submandibular region. It isn’t visible or painful but can easily be felt when I press my tongue against the roof of my mouth. It seems to be larger on the right side compared to the left, remaining stable in size for months. * Approximately 5–6 days ago, I noticed several tiny lumps, about the size of BBs, beneath the skin in the: - Groin area and inner thigh down to the shorts line - Inner upper arms and armpits - Abdominal area * These are clustered, moveable, and painless. I’m unsure how long they’ve been there since I only recently felt them while carefully palpating. * I’m uncertain if these are lymph nodes, fat deposits, or muscle structures, but their quantity and symmetry are unsettling. * I intentionally lost 15 kg (from 100.4 to 85 kg between January and April with a 1000 kcal deficit), leading me to question if the weight loss made these structures more noticeable. 2. Other noticeable physical changes: * My veins have taken on a greenish hue and become more pronounced throughout my body, especially in the arms, legs, and abdomen—there is no pain involved, just increased visibility. * I often experience episodes where my face feels intensely hot, alongside chills down my back and cold hands or feet. My temperature remains normal (36.5°C), which contributes to my anxiety regarding this symptom. 3. Changes in my skin: * I have psoriasis, but over the last two months, my skin has reacted differently: - Keratosis pilaris flared significantly across my hips, back, arms, and legs. - I have dry, reddish patches that seem to disappear after sleep. - There are frequently occurring red, painful bumps with yellow heads, primarily on my face and abdomen, resembling acne but with a higher level of inflammation. --- 💬 The reason for sharing: I’m genuinely fearful about the possibility of lymphoma or a chronic immune dysfunction. Yet, I’m aware of how deceptive and persistent EBV can be, particularly how the immune system can remain activated for an extended period afterwards. In the past, my posts may have seemed disjointed, possibly even upsetting some healthcare professionals here. However, this marks my first attempt to present my complete situation, and I would deeply appreciate any thoughtful, detailed insights anyone might have, particularly those who have dealt with: - Lingering post-viral immune activation - Multiple small, persistent lymph node-like lumps - Skin and vascular changes following illness or weight loss - Ongoing splenomegaly - Or chronic symptoms linked to EBV Your feedback would mean a great deal to me. I wish to be informed and prepared for whatever lies ahead, especially with the arrival of my first child so close at hand. Thank you immensely for taking the time to read this. Your support is invaluable to me. — A future dad, trying to stay strong 💙
Answers (1)
6/26/2025, 10:11:09 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed given the complexity of your health situation, especially with the exciting but also stressful news of becoming a parent soon. You're taking an important step by seeking clarity on your symptoms and concerns. I'll provide an overview of your symptoms and then suggest some prioritized next steps to help address your worries.
Summary of Key Concerns:
- Lumps and Lymph Nodes: You have noticed lumps in various areas of your body, including under your jaw, groin, and arms, which can be understandably concerning.
- Physical Changes: You mentioned visible veins and episodes of feeling hot and cold, coupled with skin changes, including flare-ups of psoriasis.
- Ongoing Splenomegaly: Persistently enlarged spleen confirmed by ultrasound tests.
- Anxiety about Lymphoma and Immune Dysfunction: Your past experiences with EBV and concerns about chronic health issues like lymphoma are contributing to your stress.
Explanation:
- Lumps: Lumps can arise for many reasons, including lymph nodes reacting to infections (viral or bacterial), fat deposits, or benign cysts. Given your recent weight loss, it’s possible that changes in body composition have made them more noticeable.
- Visible Veins: Changes in vein visibility can be due to weight loss, changes in hydration, or genetics. While it may seem concerning, it is often benign.
- Fluctuating Temperature: Feeling hot or cold without an actual fever can be related to various factors, including stress, anxiety, or hormonal changes.
- Skin Changes: Flare-ups of skin conditions, particularly with a history of psoriasis, can also be stress-induced or related to changes in your immune function post-viral infection like EBV.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they appear, their duration, and any accompanying factors (e.g., stress levels, dietary changes). This will help in future medical encounters.
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Focus on Wellness: Prioritize self-care and stress management techniques. Simple practices like mindfulness, moderate exercise, or speaking with friends and family can help alleviate anxiety.
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Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Ensure you're maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support your immune system, particularly during this exciting but challenging time.
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Professional Follow-Up: While I understand you're looking for insights to empower yourself, consider discussing your findings with a healthcare professional if your symptoms worsen or if new symptoms develop. Expressing your concerns about lymph nodes and seeking reassurance around lymphoma will allow them to address these fears directly.
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Consider a Dermatological Consultation: Given your changes in skin condition, connecting with a dermatologist may provide specific treatments for your psoriasis and other skin issues.
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Routine Blood Work: Keep track of your blood values, especially the liver enzymes (ALP), and consider re-evaluating them regularly to monitor changes.
Conclusion:
Your symptoms are indeed complex, but addressing them step-by-step can bring clarity and relief. It's important to remain proactive about your health while also ensuring that you take time for yourself, especially as you prepare for fatherhood. You're not alone in this, and seeking support from healthcare providers is key to managing your concerns effectively.
If any specific symptoms worsen, or if you feel your concerns about lymph nodes intensify, it's crucial to seek medical advice. Remember, your health is a journey, and taking small, manageable steps is what will lead you forward. Take care. 💙
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