In Need of Guidance
As I cross the threshold of my 40s, I find myself in a constant battle with various health issues, engaging with medical professionals over many years. This post will be detailed, and I welcome any and all feedback. While I do consult with doctors in person, I’m reaching out for a broader perspective from the community of medical experts. I suspect that due to my multitude of health conditions and the intricate nature of my case, the physicians are struggling to pinpoint what is currently threatening my well-being. I feel as though I am racing against time, which is why I am seeking your assistance. At the age of 17, I was diagnosed with stage 4 deep infiltrating endometriosis, which marked the beginning of my complex health challenges and ultimately led to a hysterectomy by 26. The medical advice I received at that time warned that hormone replacement therapy could exacerbate the endometriosis, possibly resulting in severe osteoporosis, an issue I have since faced, resisting all treatments. I have suffered six compression fractures in my spine and have been managing long-term high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, and chronic migraines post-surgery. At 20, I spent over a month in the hospital due to calcium-based kidney stones that obstructed both kidneys, leading to pneumonia. Kidney stones have been a recurrent problem for me. Approximately five years ago, I was diagnosed with 14 nodules on my thyroid, with an initial assessment indicating a strong possibility of cancer. After having five nodules and half of my thyroid removed, it turned out there was no cancer present. However, a follow-up scan revealed a 1 cm lymph node, which also proved benign. In the last three years, scans have identified nodules and lesions throughout my body, including in my spine, kidneys, and lungs. These findings have been examined by various specialists, all assuring me they are not cancerous. Despite this, I experienced a drastic weight loss, plummeting from 189 to 95 pounds within a year. Night sweats have become an alarming symptom, and while I have been told they are due to adrenal insufficiency, this has not been definitively diagnosed. Moreover, steroids seem to have an adverse effect on me, causing extreme agitation. Each time I undergo blood tests, the results seem more perplexing than the last. Unfortunately, it can take anywhere from six months to a year to secure an appointment with a specialist where I live, and I feel overwhelmed, unsure of where to turn next. I have a plethora of symptoms to manage, yet I struggle to find a primary care physician within a 100-mile radius who can adequately address my situation. Recently, several doctors advised me to cease alcohol consumption, even though I do not drink—I occasionally indulged socially in my early twenties but have long since stopped. I learned that a test labeled “M2” was positive, presumably linked to my liver, which might explain their assumptions about my drinking habits. I am hopeful that some knowledgeable physicians or health professionals here may be able to offer insights or suggestions. I am open to any and all ideas and willing to share more about my journey. I understand this platform cannot replace professional medical care, but I truly appreciate any guidance or direction you might provide. Thank you for your time!
Answers (1)
7/18/2025, 11:40:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
You're facing a challenging and complex health situation, and your proactive approach to seeking guidance is commendable. Given your history of multiple health conditions, including endometriosis, osteoporosis, and thyroid issues, as well as recent alarming symptoms like weight loss and night sweats, it’s essential to carefully navigate your health.
Key Points:
- Long-term conditions: Managing multiple chronic conditions can be overwhelming, but understanding each can help you prioritize your health care.
- Symptoms of concern: Weight loss and night sweats are particularly concerning and warrant close attention as they can indicate underlying issues like hormonal imbalances or systemic conditions.
- Access to care: Long wait times for specialists can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take to manage your concerns more effectively in the interim.
Explanation:
Given your history, issues like hormone levels, nutritional deficiencies (especially related to weight loss), and immune function may be deeply interconnected. The mention of adrenal insufficiency suggests potential hormonal imbalances that could influence other areas of your health. Your recent tests and findings of questionable results—such as the positive M2 test related to liver function—also highlight the importance of a thorough evaluation.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms Closely:
- Keep a detailed symptom diary tracking weight changes, episodes of night sweats, and any other symptoms that arise. Include what you eat, any medications you take, and your physical activities. This diary will be beneficial if you get to see a specialist sooner.
-
Nutritional Support:
- Given your significant weight loss, consider focusing on a high-calorie and nutrient-dense diet. Foods rich in protein (like lean meats, dairy, and legumes) and healthy fats (like avocados and nuts) can help support your weight. Consulting a registered dietitian might be beneficial when access becomes available.
-
Hydration and Supplements:
- Make sure you are well-hydrated and consider discussing with a professional the addition of multivitamins or specific supplements (like calcium and vitamin D) to address osteoporosis and any potential deficiencies due to weight loss.
-
Stress Management:
- Engage in stress management strategies, such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle exercises like yoga, which might help alleviate some symptoms and improve your overall well-being.
-
Seek Alternative Consultation Options:
- If possible, look into telehealth services that can provide consultations with specialists outside your immediate area, which may shorten your wait time.
-
Documenting Your Concerns:
- Prepare a precise overview of all your symptoms and diagnoses to share with healthcare providers. Presenting unresolved questions about your adrenal function, night sweats, and weight loss will ensure they are taken seriously in any future consultations.
Your current difficulties with healthcare access and the complexity of your health concerns are valid concerns. Explore these steps while we seek to identify and prioritize solutions for your current symptoms, maintaining a focus on a holistic approach to your health. You're not alone in this journey, and sharing your story may help foster connections with others who understand what you're going through.
Related Questions
Lab Results: Potential Cancer Concerns?
Over the past few months, I have been experiencing severe exhaustion, along with dizziness and memory issues. There has been a lack of clarity from various doctors about my condition, and now I've been advised to see a cardiologist. Initially, I was told that my kidneys might be causing the problems. Recent blood test results reveal: - Absolute Lymphocytes: 0.3 - Absolute Neutrophils: 8.7 - Relative Neutrophils: 92.8 - Relative Lymphocytes: 3.5 - Quantitative D-Dimer: 1.97 Physician's observations state: - The bases of the lungs appear clear. - There is evidence of fatty liver. - The gallbladder shows no significant issues. - Both adrenal glands and pancreas are normal. - The spleen is slightly enlarged, measuring 12.5 cm. - The kidneys are normal. - The appendix is within normal limits. - Mildly fluid-filled loops in the small intestine on the left side of the abdomen suggest possible enteritis, but there is no clear obstruction noted. - There are no signs of colonic distention. - The uterus contains an intrauterine contraceptive device. - No fluid accumulation is observed in the pelvic region. - There are no acute findings in the bones.
23F. Tumor Found in Liver During Ultrasound: Seeking Clarity
I'm a 23-year-old female, standing at 177 cm and dealing with being overweight. My daily medication routine includes venlafaxine and bisoprolol, along with a monthly dose of Ajovy. Occasionally, I take Vyvanse, quetiapine—primarily for sleep—and frovatriptan as necessary. For joint discomfort, I rely on over-the-counter options like naproxen or paracetamol. I suffer from chronic migraines and have developed dysautonomia along with ME/CFS following a COVID-19 infection in 2022. I've also been diagnosed with ADHD. A physiatrist identified hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) after a test showed I fell short of the criteria for hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) by one point. Additionally, I struggle with an anxiety disorder, depression, and I have a complicated history with eating disorders. My menstrual health has fluctuated between oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea, prompting me to see an OBGYN who specializes in endocrinology. Recently, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism after being considered to have subclinical hypothyroidism for years. An endocrinologist has now prescribed me thyroxine. Notably, diabetes, various rheumatic conditions, ankylosing spondylitis (AS), Chiari malformation, and sleep apnea have all been ruled out. Imaging of my brain and neck in 2022 returned normal results. However, my ESR and CRP levels have remained slightly elevated over the past three months. Tests for insulin resistance and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are forthcoming; I had documented at least ten cysts on my left ovary, while the right ovary wasn't evaluated thoroughly during the last visit. Earlier this week, I had an ultrasound to examine my liver and other upper abdominal organs, primarily to assess for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) due to persistent elevation in certain liver markers—specifically, my ALT was recorded at 55, where the reference range is under 35 U/l. During the ultrasound, a dark round spot was visible on my liver, and even I could see it on the screen. The technician mentioned that considering my age, it appeared to be likely benign. The initial report indicated it was probably a hemangioma, suggesting that further imaging was unnecessary. However, just a few days later, a different physician provided an updated assessment: "...The liver parenchyma exhibits slightly increased echogenicity with fat, and there is no sign of degeneration. Nonetheless, a measured 4 cm diameter area shows patchy changes with a more hypoechoic appearance relative to the surrounding liver, displaying effective contours and a meandering pattern; this finding is atypical for a hemangioma and suggests further evaluation of focal liver changes through cross-sectional imaging alongside enhancement techniques..." I'm not seeking a diagnosis, but I’m curious about potential tumor types that this could represent and the next actions if it turns out to involve a tumor. What might "effective contours" and “meandering” indicate? Is there a chance it could signify a more serious condition? Notably, I currently have no symptoms that would typically align with liver issues.
Understanding Lichenification Following Eczema
At the age of 21, I found myself dealing with an unexpected skin issue. When the pandemic hit in 2020, I began using an antibacterial dish soap known for its vibrant orange hue from Palmolive. After approximately two weeks of consistent use, an annoying itchy spot emerged on my left wrist. I decided to cease using the soap, thinking little of the irritation, and it eventually vanished on its own. Fast forward to March 2024, I started washing dishes with a different antibacterial soap—this time from Dawn, decorated with an adorable duck logo. I mistakenly believed I could switch products without consequence, as I never had issues with the standard blue Dawn. To my dismay, the itchy patch returned, appearing as a cluster of uncomfortable bumps that drove me to scratch for relief, yet this was ultimately detrimental. Initially hopeful it would fade like before, I merely tolerated the discomfort. However, by October 2024, after enduring several months of irritation and unsuccessfully using Cortisone 10, I finally sought medical advice. My doctor prescribed a topical antibiotic cream that combined mupirocin and clotrimazole. Within a week, on November 2, I experienced a miraculous improvement. It seemed that relief was finally within reach. Sadly, a family emergency unexpectedly landed me in the hospital in December 2024. There, I used a gentle white foam soap for handwashing, believing it to be harmless. But soon after, I observed red bumps emerging on my skin. Upon inspecting the soap dispenser, I discovered in tiny print that it was also antibacterial. What had once seemed like a safe option surprisingly turned out to be yet another threat. Consequently, I was back to square one and applied the same treatment once more, yet it yielded no results this time. My skin likely developed a tolerance to the ointment. Now, in July 2025, over a year since this ordeal began, my skin condition appears drastically worsened. It's painful, itchy, and shockingly started oozing, a new development that occurred just last week. My nights have become troubled; I’ve awoken in a daze, scratching at the irritated area without fully realizing what I was doing. As July draws to a close, I’m relieved to report that the bleeding from scratching has ceased. For the past week, I’ve been vigilant, avoiding the main patch, even covering it with a bandage at night. However, I carelessly scratched some healthier skin near the edges, and it swiftly reacted by bleeding and resembling the original patch. What has happened to my skin? Why is it so delicate? I attempted to gather more information and came across the term lichenification. So, what is lichenification? It’s a skin condition characterized by lesions that develop due to persistent scratching or rubbing. Initially, these lesions may cause the skin to darken, leading to small raised bumps known as papules. Over time, the skin can thicken, causing pronounced markings or lines, a hallmark of the condition. Secondary lichenification often arises from an underlying condition that triggers excessive itching and may lead to lichen simplex chronicus—a more serious form. Common triggers for secondary lichenification include conditions like atopic dermatitis and eczema. Typically, lichenification is attributed to a vicious cycle of itching and scratching, where the act of scratching exacerbates the itch, leading to more scratching and further deterioration of the skin. Rubbing the skin can also instigate lichenification, a painful reminder that I’ve experienced firsthand, as it can lead to bleeding just as scratching does. Sadly, the Reddit app isn’t allowing me to share photos within this community. What thoughts or insights do you have regarding this condition?
My Father's Deteriorating Health
My father, a 60-year-old man, is suffering from ischemic strokes on the left side, caused by narrowed blood vessels stemming from poorly managed diabetes and high cholesterol. His right-side weakness and speech difficulties are becoming more pronounced. He was discharged with a regimen that includes Plavix, Aspirin, Atorvastatin, Gabapentin, Metformin, Lantus insulin, Thiamine, and Folic Acid. However, he was only home for a single day before he had to return, following the discovery of additional white matter on his recent CT scan. I am left questioning why this is happening. His bilirubin levels have also been fluctuating significantly.
Possible Misdiagnosis of Autoimmune Conditions?
Hello everyone! I apologize for the lengthy message, but I’m seeking insights from medical professionals. At 26 years old, I received a diagnosis of an autoimmune disorder nearly three years ago. My symptoms escalated rapidly; in just 48 hours, my hands, knees, and ankles swelled dramatically, prompting an emergency room visit. They administered a steroid injection and conducted numerous tests, which only indicated a significant level of inflammation. Afterward, I was referred to a rheumatologist—a process that took a month during which I was largely immobilized, unable to walk, bend my knees, or use my hands. Finally, upon seeing the specialist, I was diagnosed with "Undifferentiated Spondyloarthropathy." Though the treatment provided has been effective, allowing me to resume a relatively normal lifestyle, the underlying cause remains elusive. The healthcare team essentially concluded that something triggered the condition, labeling it as "undifferentiated" due to their inability to pinpoint a specific diagnosis. This leaves me pondering the reasons behind this sudden onset. I'm eager to gain a clearer understanding of what exactly is affecting me and whether there are more effective treatment options available. The absence of answers weighs heavily on me, and I would greatly appreciate any thoughts or guidance from those in the medical field. Thank you for your help!