Persistent Swelling, Itching, and Illness
Age: 33 I aim to summarize my situation briefly, though I'm open to sharing further details in the comments if needed. I've experienced minor health concerns for several years, but lately, one issue has intensified significantly since early May. My lower abdomen has become severely swollen. Although I noticed gradual swelling over the last six months, it suddenly worsened in the first few days of May. Concerned by this sudden change, I visited the emergency room on May 4th. After conducting blood tests and a CT scan, the doctors found no obvious problems. However, the swelling did not improve. Over the course of the following month, I returned to the ER twice more and sought acute care once, culminating in a follow-up appointment with my primary care physician on June 10th. While the doctor ordered ultrasounds and a colonoscopy, she indicated that my situation did not appear to be urgent. In addition to the abdominal swelling, I have been suffering from relentless itching for at least five years. Multiple physicians have suggested it could be allergies, but I have experimented with various remedies to no avail. The itching intensifies at night and affects my entire body, with my feet and legs being the most severely impacted. It feels as though the irritation originates beneath the skin, leading me to suspect it could be a nerve-related issue rather than purely dermal. Recently, I have noticed a range of new symptoms manifesting. I have been experiencing overwhelming fatigue that can vary from day to day. Additionally, I have dealt with significant constipation, for which I started taking 200mg of docusate sodium daily; while it has provided some relief, the issue persists. My appetite has diminished considerably, which contributes to minimal food intake. Eating typically causes my abdominal discomfort to escalate, leading to further unease on top of a baseline of discomfort. This has resulted in a notable weight decrease—dropping from 125 pounds last fall to 115 on May 4th and now down to 107 pounds (at 5'4")—along with persistent aches and a general sense of malaise that fluctuates in severity. Mid-May, I also noticed a growing red spot on my cheek that resembles a small telangiectasia. While it may not be directly related, the timeline prompted me to mention it. Over the past year, I have had multiple brief instances of illness, characterized by fatigue and a vague sense of being unwell. However, these episodes have become more frequent, particularly since May, culminating in a notably challenging episode in the last few days. This latest phase has brought along heightened fatigue, body aches, and a severe headache, accompanied by intermittent sweating, hot flashes, and occasional chills. I have researched various potential causes for my abdominal swelling extensively. While I don't intend to lead anyone's thoughts in a specific direction, a description of itching akin to mine caught my attention while I was researching lymphoma, which I felt was pertinent to mention. A colonoscopy is scheduled for next month, and I hope it will shed light on my issues. However, thus far, no tests or imaging have indicated any specific concerns. I am trying to remain patient, but my symptoms are increasingly distressing, and I am alarmed by the rapid progression of these issues. Thank you for taking the time to read my account. I welcome any insights or advice you may have.
Answers (1)
6/30/2025, 12:20:44 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the distressing symptoms you're experiencing, including abdominal swelling, severe itching, fatigue, and weight loss. These symptoms are understandably concerning, especially given their recent worsening. It's important to remain proactive while awaiting your upcoming colonoscopy and further evaluations.
Summary of Main Considerations
- Abdominal Swelling: Gradual worsening that requires monitoring.
- Persistent Itching: Potentially linked to allergies, nerve issues, or skin conditions.
- Fatigue and Appetite Loss: Notable changes that could be influenced by your overall health.
- Additional Symptoms: New developments like a red spot, frequent illnesses, and body aches.
Explanation
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Abdominal Swelling: While tests have shown no immediate issues, continued monitoring is crucial. Sudden changes can signal different underlying conditions, so documenting any additional symptoms you notice is helpful.
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Itching: Severe itching can sometimes be due to internal conditions, allergies, or skin disorders. Given its persistence and your research into lymphoma, it's wise to discuss the potential need for specialized testing with your physician to rule out underlying causes.
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Fatigue and Appetitive Changes: Weight loss and loss of appetite can reflect overall health complications, warranting close attention. You may consider tracking your food intake and symptoms to identify patterns that might emerge.
Next Steps
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Keep a Symptom Journal: Document all symptoms, including their intensity, triggers, and patterns. Note any changes, especially after meals or at specific times of day.
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Monitor Your Weight: Continue to track your weight regularly. If it continues to decline or results in significant discomfort, it's important to bring this to your healthcare provider's attention immediately.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Focus on staying hydrated. Even if your appetite is low, small, nutrient-dense snacks can help manage weight. Protein shakes or smoothies might be beneficial if solid foods are difficult.
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Prepare for Upcoming Appointments: Write down any specific questions or concerns to discuss at your colonoscopy and follow-up visits. This will help you address any previosuly overlooked aspects and allow your providers to comprehensively evaluate your symptoms.
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Consider Allergy Testing or Dermatology Referral: If your itching continues to be unresolved, even with the allergies considered, it may be useful to discuss further specialized testing for skin or systemic conditions.
Remember, you are not alone in this, and your concerns are valid. Keeping an open line of communication with your healthcare team and staying proactive about tracking your symptoms can provide clarity as you work through these challenges. Let me know if you have other questions or need additional information!
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