22M Facing Unusual Dryness, Discomfort, and Fatigue
Hello Doctor, I'm a 22-year-old male committed to a healthy lifestyle. My diet consists mainly of fruits, vegetables, and protein, and I’m trying to follow a low-histamine plan to investigate a potential connection to Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). For the past couple of years, I have been trying to determine the underlying issues affecting my health, but my doctors seem uncertain about where to focus their investigations. My mother has been diagnosed with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), and although I have yet to receive a diagnosis, I am scheduled to undergo evaluation soon. Furthermore, my grandmother has lupus. Here's what I’m experiencing: Whenever I engage in physical activities or even encounter mental stress, I develop a range of unusual symptoms. When I attempt to sleep, I encounter severe dryness that results in discomfort; my nose becomes so parched it often bleeds, my eyes feel as though they are burning, I experience ear pain, and my throat is irritated due to dryness. Additionally, my lungs feel off, I sense weakness and depression, and I really struggle to sleep for several nights following these episodes. The most bothersome sensation is in my nose, which feels as though it has been scratched with fragments of glass. My doctor prescribed Salbutamol to rule out asthma, but it proved ineffective. I did observe that my heart rhythm seemed abnormal during those times. I can’t pinpoint when these symptoms begin to lessen, but I notice some improvement around the third day of rest without exercise. It’s quite evident to others that something is amiss, as people often inquire if I am feeling unwell; my face becomes noticeably pale, and I don’t seem healthy during these periods. At this moment, I am unsure about which type of specialist might be able to assist me. If anyone has had similar experiences or has suggestions, I would greatly appreciate your insights. Thank you for your time.
Answers (1)
7/6/2025, 11:01:09 AM
OpenHealth AI
Main Points: You are experiencing persistent dryness, discomfort, fatigue, and unusual symptoms following physical or mental stress. Given your family history and pending evaluations, it's understandable to seek clarity on your health.
Explanation: Your symptoms may be linked to various factors, including potential underlying conditions—especially considering your family history of connective tissue disorders (like hEDS) and autoimmune conditions (like lupus). The dryness you're experiencing, particularly in your nose and eyes, could be related to several issues such as dehydration, environmental factors, allergies, or possible autoimmune responses.
Given your efforts to follow a low-histamine diet and the prescribed salbutamol for asthma (which was ineffective), it is vital to consider other underlying conditions that might not be asthma-related, such as a connective tissue disorder or an immune system issue.
Next Steps:
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Track your symptoms, their triggers (like specific activities or foods), and how long they last. This information can help your healthcare provider identify patterns and possible connections to conditions like MCAS or sensitivities.
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Hydrate and Humidify: Increase your water intake and consider using a humidifier in your living space to alleviate dryness, especially at night. This can help reduce discomfort in your nose, eyes, and throat.
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Limit Physical and Mental Stress: Listen to your body and take regular breaks during strenuous activities. If certain activities lead to worsening symptoms, consider modifying them until you've gathered more information from specialists.
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Consult a Specialist: You might benefit from seeing a rheumatologist, who specializes in autoimmune and connective tissue disorders, as well as an allergist to assess potential allergies or sensitivities that could be contributing to your symptoms.
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Monitor and Report Heart Rhythm: If you notice any irregularities in your heart rhythm again, document them in your symptom diary, as this may require further evaluation.
Your proactive approach to your health is commendable. Stay patient with the process of finding answers, and don't hesitate to seek out specialists who can offer insight based on your unique situation.
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