Normal Lab Results, Yet Struggling with Severe Illness
This is quite a lengthy narrative, but I feel it's important to share my journey. I have a long-standing history of chronic health issues alongside mental health challenges. Age: 29, Weight: 145 lbs, Height: 5'7" Current Medications: Lamotrigine 150mg daily; Buspirone 10mg twice a day as needed; Focalin extended release 30mg each morning. Medical Conditions: ADHD (inattentive type), Autism, Bipolar Disorder (type 2), Borderline Personality Disorder, Complex PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, and I suspect POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) possibly related to EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome), though that isn’t my focus at the moment. Surgical History: I underwent an emergency C-section in 2016 that was quite rapid (just 17 minutes from diagnosis to my son’s delivery, while under general anesthesia, with no spinal block). I had another planned C-section in 2018 and a partial hysterectomy in 2022 via the same scar while retaining my ovaries. Health Background: I was born with uterine didelphys, which means having two uteruses, two cervices, and a vaginal septum. This condition led to intense menstrual pain and frequent abdominal discomfort unrelated to my cycle, necessitating numerous consultations and tests aimed at pain relief. During a pelvic examination under anesthesia at age 12, my double uterus and cervices were identified and a portion of the septum was removed without prior discussion with my parents or me. This has since caused scar tissue complications, contributing to pain during intercourse unless a vibrator is used for relief. I have experienced a multitude of pelvic exams, ultrasounds, various imaging techniques, bladder washes, pelvic rehabilitation, numerous birth control methods (including depot shots, Lupron, and NuvaRing), and various medications, including antispasmodics, antidepressants, muscle relaxants, and both non-narcotic and narcotic pain relief (the latter during my teenage years). Beginning around age 10, I experienced episodes characterized by heart palpitations, rapid heart rate, dizziness, tunnel vision, ringing in my ears, and nausea, which would often culminate in fainting. These occurrences gradually became more prevalent, leading to my POTS diagnosis at age 27. Additionally, I have dealt with intermittent gastrointestinal issues throughout my life, which I often dismissed as isolated incidents of food poisoning or stomach viruses. Eventually, they were attributed to IBS or simply the chronic pain associated with my reproductive system. After my hysterectomy, these gastrointestinal symptoms became less frequent and severe, prompting me to manage them as best I could. However, I now find myself grappling with more pressing concerns. Current Challenges: For the past six weeks, I've been struggling with gastrointestinal distress to such an extent that I've missed nearly a month of work. I've depleted my paid time off and am now facing a corrective action plan due to these absences. Every morning, I awake to severe nausea and abdominal cramps without fail. My bathroom visits are marked by either diarrhea or constipation—there's no middle ground. Following this, I often experience dry heaving for 10-15 minutes before I can manage to take my medications. Throughout the day, I live with a persistent level of nausea and lower abdominal discomfort, which invariably worsens upon eating. No matter how bland the meal, within ten minutes after eating, I experience increasing pain and frequent urges to use the bathroom every 3-5 minutes, hampering my ability to perform my job from home. I visited the emergency room two weeks ago, where lab tests and a contrast CT scan returned normal results. I was given morphine and Zofran along with IV fluids, after which several medications were prescribed. They advised me to follow up with a gastroenterologist, which is in progress, yet I still struggle to maintain daily functioning. I returned to the ER last Thursday, where they repeated blood tests, provided IV toradol and reglan, but once again urged me to consult a GI specialist, stating a necessary scope was in my future (though they did not proceed with the scope at that moment). On top of everything else, I am experiencing a pervasive feeling of bruising throughout my body, along with swelling and stiffness in my fingers, particularly in the joints. My fine motor skills vary throughout the day, making even simple tasks—like opening a pill packet—challenging. Light touch or pressure causes significant discomfort, which, while not my primary concern, adds to my overall distress. I'm overwhelmed and in a constant state of discomfort. The fear of eating due to the ensuing pain is stifling, and I am perpetually exhausted. I am reaching out for support and am open to any suggestions, insights, or guidance that might help me find some relief. Thank you for considering my situation and for any assistance you can provide. P.S. I realized I omitted the year of my hysterectomy in earlier notes.
Answers (1)
6/29/2025, 6:31:04 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the challenges you've been facing. Your situation sounds incredibly overwhelming, and it’s understandable to seek relief and clarity. Let's focus on the gastrointestinal distress you're experiencing and how to alleviate some of your symptoms.
Main Points:
- Digestive Issues: You are experiencing severe nausea, abdominal cramps, and altered bowel habits, which are affecting your daily functioning.
- Previous Evaluations: Normal lab results suggest there may be a functional or gastrointestinal issue that isn't clearly identifiable yet.
- Current Symptoms: Ongoing discomfort makes it hard for you to eat and maintain daily activities.
Explanation:
Given your history and the acute symptoms you're describing, it’s important to explore a few key factors that might be contributing to your gastrointestinal distress. Conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), motility issues, and even anxiety can exacerbate digestive symptoms. POTS can also cause gastrointestinal issues due to decreased blood flow to the digestive tract in certain positions.
Actionable Steps:
-
Dietary Management:
- Start a food diary to track what you eat and when symptoms occur; this can help identify possible trigger foods.
- Smaller, more frequent meals may ease nausea and help manage bowel habits. Try bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet).
- Stay hydrated with clear fluids, and consider electrolyte solutions if you are experiencing diarrhea.
-
Medication Adherence:
- Ensure you are consistently taking prescribed medications like Zofran for nausea. Discuss timing of medications with your healthcare provider to optimize their effect based on meal times.
-
Symptom Management:
- Use relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or yoga, to help manage anxiety and reduce gastrointestinal upset.
- Over-the-counter medications like simethicone may assist with gas, while probiotics can sometimes help balance gut bacteria—discuss these options with your gastroenterologist.
-
Consult Specialist:
- Continue the follow-up with your gastroenterologist. Discuss the possibility of further testing (like an upper endoscopy or motility studies) to explore any underlying conditions that might be contributing to your symptoms.
- Mention the sensations of bruising and joint stiffness to ensure a holistic view of your health profile, as these could be relevant to any underlying conditions.
-
Support Systems:
- Consider reaching out to support groups or mental health professionals for chronic illness management. They could provide emotional support and coping strategies while you navigate these health challenges.
Conclusion:
Your symptoms are difficult, and it's okay to feel anxious about them. Focus on manageable dietary changes, effective medication use, and consistent communication with your healthcare providers. Prioritize the steps that feel most achievable for you right now. If you ever feel overwhelmed, remember to lean on your support networks.
Please keep me updated on how things progress, and don't hesitate to reach out as you find your path forward!
Related Questions
Concerns About Varicose Veins?
I’m a 30-year-old woman who maintains a healthy diet, has never smoked, and doesn’t drink alcohol. However, I’ve noticed some unusual symptoms that make me wonder if I might be dealing with varicose veins, especially since my mother has a severe case of them. In a matter of weeks, I will celebrate my 30th birthday. For several months, I have experienced a consistent dull ache in a vein on my inner thigh, which appears as a long blue-green line. Occasionally, it feels tender and might be itchy, although I can't quite recall. The discomfort tends to reoccur, lasting for a few days and then disappearing for about a month before returning again. When I palpate the area, I can clearly feel the vein protruding. Interestingly, the veins in my right leg seem normal and do not present any issues, in stark contrast to the left thigh where the vein is raised and can easily be felt when I apply lotion. While it's not twisted like typical varicose veins, I can’t help but wonder if this could indicate a similar condition. Additionally, I experience numbness in my left leg whenever I sit on the toilet for an extended period. As a side note, I am also awaiting tests for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, which might be relevant to my situation.
Concerns Over Potential Colon Cancer vs. Confirmed Hemorrhoids
I'm a 33-year-old woman, currently taking Prozac for OCD. About a year ago, I experienced severe bleeding during bowel movements, prompting me to seek medical advice at an urgent care clinic. The physician there identified a significant hemorrhoid. Following that, I consulted a colorectal specialist who confirmed the presence of the same hemorrhoid. Every time I notice blood when wiping—mostly after I use the toilet rather than in the stool itself—I feel overwhelmed with anxiety. Additionally, when my stools are flat, it sends me into a panic. I've begun to fear that I might have colon cancer. There seems to be a sensation of pressure near my rectum, and the blood loss during wiping is alarming. At 280 pounds, I'm aware that I am quite overweight, and while I’m trying to rationalize that my issues are due to hemorrhoids, a nagging thought persists: what if it truly is cancer and I’m overlooking the symptoms? My bowel habits tend to lean towards diarrhea more often than constipation, and my stools usually appear light brown with occasional orange tints. There are times when I feel an urgent need to use the restroom, and I do feel some relief afterward. Additionally, I've consistently dealt with excessive gas for several years. Ultimately, I’m terrified that I am not taking my health seriously enough and might be neglecting the need for a colonoscopy. Should I advocate more vigorously for one?
Thoughts on MRI Results
My eleven-year-old daughter, who is 5’1” and weighs 110 lbs, has been experiencing unexpected knee pain for almost a year now, without any clear cause. Initially, we consulted an orthopedic specialist, who assured us that she was fine and advised against activities that caused pain. Fast forward six months, and her condition hasn’t improved; she continues to limp frequently and experiences severe pain in her knees, as well as in her femur and tibia, particularly at night. We decided to revisit the orthopedic doctor, who again claimed that she was fine. Frustrated, I insisted on an MRI. The results revealed advanced Osgood-Schlatter disease, which finally provided us with a diagnosis. However, six months later, my daughter is still in discomfort. We've also started looking into a possible breathing issue that occurs at night and conducted some blood tests, revealing an ALP level of 519 and vitamin D level of 21.7. Just a week after, her ALP level rose to 626 following an isoenzyme test, confirming the elevation is linked to her bones. She has a scheduled bone scan tomorrow. Out of curiosity, I retrieved her MRI images from January and submitted them to ChatGPT for analysis. It indicated the presence of lesions in her knee but found no evidence of Osgood-Schlatter disease. I'm interested to hear if anyone else has insights or information regarding this situation, as I'm trying to gather knowledge to alleviate my concerns.
Update on My 74-Year-Old Mother's Ventilator Weaning Process
Hello everyone, I wanted to share an update regarding my mother, who is 74 years old, has no prior lung issues, and is a non-smoker. About a month ago, she unexpectedly entered septic shock and developed Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Thankfully, after around a week, the medical team managed to bring her out of a medically induced coma. She has successfully battled various infections and a tension pneumothorax during this difficult time. For the past two and a half weeks, the healthcare professionals have been gradually weaning her off the ventilator. Initially, they employed Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), and approximately three to four days ago, they began administering oxygen through her tracheostomy mask. Throughout this period, she has undergone several trials lasting two, three, and four hours. Today, she participated in a six-hour trial, although she required a break after three hours on the second attempt. I am hopeful that her recovery is progressing well, perhaps even better than anticipated. However, I wonder if it is typical for patients to experience fatigue during extended trial periods. Essentially, she was active for a cumulative twelve hours, only taking a two-hour rest between the trials, and she has only been awake for about three weeks. I’m seeking insights and experiences from anyone who may have professional or personal knowledge about similar situations. Although I have confidence in the medical staff, I would appreciate any additional information.
Struggling with Persistent Symptoms After ER Visits
I'm a 28-year-old woman, weighing 42.5 kilograms and standing at 152 cm. Currently, I am prescribed the following medications: - Concerta 36 mg (methylphenidate ER), taken at 2:00 PM - Pregabalin 75 mg, taken at 1:00 AM (for insomnia) - Sertraline 25 mg, taken at 1:30 AM - Magnesium citrate 400 mg, also at 1:30 AM I must admit that my lifestyle choices aren't the best, but since starting Concerta around a year ago, I've made an effort to include more supplements in my diet due to a noticeable decrease in my appetite and weight. I have significantly reduced my consumption of junk food and generally maintain a decent level of fitness, often excelling in sports. Typically, I stay hydrated with mostly water, coffee, or tea, though I've been trying to cut back on coffee and tea since they don't pair well with Concerta. I manage to exercise two to three times per week; however, I’ve been feeling particularly drained recently. This past week, I experienced a concerning episode on Tuesday while climbing the stairs at home, where I suddenly felt dizzy, nauseous, and lightheaded, accompanied by a buzzing sensation in my head, mental fog, heart palpitations, and displayed a pale complexion. Initially, I attributed it to dehydration, but the symptoms subsided within about ten minutes. Then, on Thursday, while at work—standing and not engaged in strenuous activity—I encountered the same set of symptoms. Low sounds became unbearable, and I noticed that my heart rate, as recorded by my Apple Watch, exceeded 105 bpm. The following day, I found myself struggling with shortness of breath after performing even minor physical tasks, culminating in another episode of similar distress. I visited the ER due to low blood pressure, which registered at 98/47. Although my blood pressure improved slightly upon examination, it remained lower than normal for me (I typically have higher blood pressure, particularly when on Concerta). The ER staff indicated that my low state was a side effect of Pregabalin, suggested I discontinue its use, and prescribed a benzodiazepine before sending me home. I consulted my psychiatrist the next day, who pointed out that my blood pressure was indeed critically low for someone on my medication regimen, disputing the notion that Pregabalin was at fault. The subsequent day, the symptoms were exacerbated: I experienced a buzzing in my ears accompanied by sharp pain, increased dizziness, intensified brain fog, and slurred speech. When I returned to the ER, comprehensive tests revealed no abnormalities according to the doctor. However, he noted several points: - My ECG indicated a block that is normal for my age and stature; my heart rate was 70 bpm during the test. - I presented with severe ketonuria (greater than 80) but had normal glucose levels. - There was mild leukocytosis (11.11). - Electrolytes such as chlorine, sodium, and potassium were normal. - Both iron and hemoglobin levels were satisfactory. I was administered IV fluids for several hours, received medication for the vertigo, and was discharged with a diagnosis of malnutrition linked to my ketonuria. The takeaway was simple: I needed to focus on improving my eating and sleeping habits. After receiving the fluids and medication, the dizziness temporarily ceased, but I suffered another episode before leaving the hospital, with my heart rate spiking to 115 bpm—even while at rest. The doctor reassured me that my symptoms stemmed from malnutrition. Today, after consuming a nutritious meal, rehydrating with oral electrolytes, and resting most of the day, I had yet another episode after minimal exertion (just chatting and preparing for work). These incidents are escalating in severity and duration, and I find recovery takes longer, with a lingering buzzing sensation even after the palpitations cease. I'm feeling increasingly overwhelmed and distressed, uncertain about seeking immediate medical help again, especially fearing it may seem excessive or dramatic. This week, I have an appointment with an internist. However, is another visit to the ER warranted?