Seeking Guidance on Symptoms: What Should I Discuss with My Doctor?
Hello everyone, today has been particularly overwhelming for me, so I’m hoping to gather some insights from you all. A bit about my situation: I’m a 28-year-old female living with a diagnosis of depression, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Currently, I’m struggling with these conditions and find myself largely confined to my home or bed. My current medications include 10mg of Escitalopram and 25mg of Quetiapine, but I feel like they are losing their effectiveness. Additionally, I take various supplements including calcium, magnesium, multivitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc. Alongside my mental health challenges, I’ve been experiencing several troubling symptoms: • A persistent dryness in my mouth and throat, despite a sensation of fullness as if my stomach has enough water. At times, it feels like my whole body is dehydrated. • A vague but constant feeling of depletion throughout my body—this is not just fatigue; it feels as though my cells and muscles are not receiving the nourishment they require, and even what does get through doesn’t seem to sustain. • Previously, I often desired sugary, carbohydrate-rich, and fatty foods while disregarding protein. Recently, however, I suddenly find myself averse to sugary and overly carb-filled items, though it doesn't feel like a mental or restrictive choice. • I’ve experimented with electrolyte drinks, but their taste and sweetness leave a strange aftertaste that exacerbates my dry mouth. • I have a hunger that does not translate into an appetite, leading to further weakness and discomfort. • Consuming food has become a challenge—nothing too sweet or heavy can sit well, but eating large portions seems to overwhelm me. • The process of having a bowel movement feels exhausting; it feels like it drains my energy entirely, increases my heart rate, leaves me breathless, and makes me extremely thirsty. • I’m struggling with temperature regulation and experience sudden hot flashes where I feel overheated. • My blood pressure tends to be low, but my heart rate is often elevated. • I frequently notice my toes feeling cold, even in warm conditions, yet I don’t experience a chilling sensation in my feet. It’s challenging to discern which of these symptoms stem from psychological factors or the nervous system, the effects of ME/CFS, the medication I’m on, or perhaps other underlying physical issues such as adrenal or electrolyte imbalances. Any suggestions on what I should consider discussing with my healthcare provider would be immensely helpful (though I’m unsure how I would actually manage to get to my GP!). Thank you for your support! 🙏🏻
Answers (1)
7/15/2025, 5:02:04 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your situation; it sounds very challenging and overwhelming. Your symptoms and experiences merit careful consideration and discussion with your healthcare provider. Here’s a structured approach to help you identify key areas to discuss.
Main Points
- Medication Effectiveness: You’re feeling as though your current medications may not be working well anymore.
- Symptom Identification: Several troubling symptoms need evaluation to determine their origin and appropriate treatment.
- General Health Concerns: You’re facing issues related to hydration, energy, appetite, digestion, temperature regulation, and more.
Explanation
Your complex health background, including depression, GAD, and ME/CFS, can intertwine with physical symptoms, making it hard to pinpoint the causes. Having a conversation with your doctor about these concerns is essential for adjusting your treatment plan effectively. A thorough evaluation can help identify whether your symptoms stem from medication side effects, your chronic conditions, or other health issues such as adrenal insufficiency or electrolyte imbalances.
Next Steps
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Make a List of Symptoms: Draft a list of your symptoms, noting their frequency, triggers, and any changes over time. This will help your doctor understand your condition better during the consultation.
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Discuss Medication Concerns:
- Effectiveness of Current Medications: Share your feelings about the effectiveness of Escitalopram and Quetiapine. Ask if an adjustment or alternative options might be beneficial.
- Possible Side Effects: Discuss the possibility that some of your symptoms may be side effects of your current medications.
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Hydration and Nutrition:
- Talk about your experience with dry mouth and unusual hunger. Express your concerns regarding selective food aversions and how this changes your eating habits.
- Consider discussing hydration strategies that might be easier for you, such as focusing on less sweet options or discussing specific electrolyte balance tests.
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Energy and Fatigue Management:
- Address the constant feeling of depletion, energy drain from bowel movements, and changes in appetite. Explore whether therapies or dietary changes could assist in managing your ME/CFS symptoms more effectively.
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Temperature Regulation and Blood Pressure:
- Mention your issues with temperature regulation and changes in heart rate and blood pressure. These physical symptoms need attention to rule out any potential underlying conditions.
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Utilize Virtual Consultations:
- If getting to your GP is difficult, consider virtual appointments. Many healthcare providers offer telehealth services, which can be more convenient and help facilitate easier communication about your symptoms.
Final Thoughts
I encourage you to take your time with this process. Communicating openly with your healthcare provider using your symptom list can guide your discussions and lead to better treatment options. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and seeking medical guidance is a strong step toward improving your health and well-being. If you need further assistance or information about these topics, feel free to reach out!
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