Seeking Insights on Unexplained Body Pain After Negative ANA Test
I am a 32-year-old Asian female who has been managing depression and anxiety since 2020. Recently, in 2023, I was also diagnosed with ADHD. My current medication regimen includes Cymbalta (60mg), Ritalin (10mg twice daily—previously on Concerta 18mg), Seroquel (25mg), Ativan (0.5mg), and Glucophage XR (500mg). In late 2017, I began experiencing severe discomfort in my scapula that radiated to my clavicle, accompanied by debilitating headaches and occasional breathing difficulties. Over time, this localized pain evolved into widespread body aches, making me feel as though I have exerted myself through strenuous physical labor every single day. During my monthly visits to my psychiatrist, I consistently reported these issues, prompting her to refer me to an internal medicine specialist. She ordered an ANA test, suspecting potential autoimmune conditions, hypothyroidism, or PCOS due to my long history of irregular menstrual cycles (only three in the past year), acne, significant hair thinning, and my struggles to lose weight despite being in a calorie deficit. Since beginning Glucophage in March, I have managed to shed 9kg (20lbs), reducing my weight from 88kg (194lbs) to 79kg (174lbs). However, when the ANA test results came back negative, the doctor stated there were no further tests necessary, and he referred me to a gynecologist for further evaluation scheduled for next week. I mentioned that my psychiatrist, who is also of Asian descent, has a diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis despite her negative ANA test results, but the doctor suggested my issues might stem from poor sleep quality instead. This persistent pain has significantly impacted my social life; I often decline invitations from friends, leading to a decline in social interactions and exacerbating my feelings of depression. My headaches, bodily pain, fatigue, and low energy can persist for weeks, even with medication adjustments including amitriptyline and Topamax. At times, I question whether my experiences are legitimate or if I’m simply being lazy, as my lifestyle has turned largely sedentary due to the pain I endure. To the doctors of Reddit, what recommendations can you offer? Do you have any insights into what this might be?
Answers (1)
7/14/2025, 8:40:40 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your detailed experience. It sounds like you are going through a challenging time with persistent body pain and the emotional impact it has had on your life. I want to acknowledge your concerns and the complexities of your condition as you navigate through these symptoms and their effects on your mental health.
Main Points: Your symptoms of widespread body pain, fatigue, and headaches, coupled with a negative ANA test, might suggest a few possibilities, including fibromyalgia or other chronic pain conditions rather than an autoimmune disorder. It's also important to address the mental health implications of your ongoing discomfort.
Explanation:
- Widespread Pain: Conditions like fibromyalgia can cause widespread pain without clear inflammation or autoimmune markers. Symptoms can overlap with anxiety and depression, creating a cycle that may increase physical discomfort.
- Impact of Mental Health: Chronic pain can lead to feelings of frustration, guilt, or laziness, especially when social interactions decline due to pain. This emotional burden is very real and significant.
- Negative ANA Result: While an ANA test can indicate autoimmune disorders, not all patients with autoimmune conditions will test positive. It may mean that your symptoms stem from other non-autoimmune-related issues.
- Potential Conditions to Consider: Beyond autoimmune issues, factors like sleep quality, fibromyalgia, or other chronic pain syndromes should be considered, especially since sleep issues were suggested by your doctor.
Prioritized Next Steps:
- Keep a Pain Diary: Track your symptoms, pain levels, energy fluctuations, sleep quality, and mood to identify patterns. This will be helpful for your upcoming gynecologist appointment.
- Focus on Sleep Hygiene: Since poor sleep quality has been mentioned, try to establish a regular sleep routine. Create a relaxing bedtime environment, limit screen time in the evening, and think about relaxation techniques like deep breathing or gentle yoga.
- Explore Physical Activity: Incorporate gentle movement such as stretching, walking, or swimming, which can help manage pain and improve mood. Start small to avoid overexertion—aim for consistency rather than intensity.
- Engage with Support: Continue discussing your feelings with your psychiatrist and consider support groups for chronic pain or those living with similar conditions. This can help combat feelings of isolation and validate your experiences.
Your journey is complex, but addressing it with a proactive approach can lead to better management of your symptoms. Stay connected with your healthcare providers, as they can offer tailored options and ongoing support. Let me know if you have any specific questions or need further assistance!
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