Recurring Symptoms: Wounds, Gas, and Acne
I’m a 30-year-old female, and I frequently deal with an annoying recurring sore situated on my labia, near the bikini line. This lesion doesn’t bleed or open but often appears as if it’s on the brink of healing. Once, it took a staggering three months to heal, the following year it lingered for four months, and the next time it was somewhat better, resolving in just a few weeks. Although I take vitamin D and iron supplements, I admit I don’t do so as consistently as I ought to, and I'm curious if this plays a role in my health issues. Previously, a gastroenterologist recommended that I use Miralax daily, which I did for around two years. However, after increasing my water intake, I experienced a decrease in severe discomfort, allowing me to stop using the medication. When I relied on Miralax, skipping even a couple of doses would leave me in excruciating pain, causing my family to contemplate a trip to the emergency room. Fortunately, my gas problems have improved significantly since I stopped the daily Miralax regimen. Stress also exacerbates my gas issues. Oddly enough, I often don’t realize I have gas until I experience sharp back pain. It’s not until I begin burping excessively that I recognize the source of the discomfort, feeling relief as the back pain subsides. These episodes can persist for more than a week at a time. Additionally, I notice an increase in acne during stressful situations or after consuming high glycemic index foods. The pimples that erupt often manifest as tiny, easily popped lesions with a little pus or as standard red pimples that take their time to heal. Both types leave behind a trail of acne scars across my face, with persistent marks that seem resistant to fading, unlike before when they would diminish within a few weeks with just regular cleansing and no specific products. Even though I’ve tried popular skincare treatments, including tretinoin, I find that they barely make a dent in reducing the scars. At times, I feel as though the products merely sit on my skin without any effects. I’m even at a stage where I can apply Tazorac (since I transitioned from tretinoin) on damp skin, cover it with Vaseline, and wrap up with plastic wrap, yet I see little improvement, despite following this routine diligently for weeks. I can’t shake the feeling that these recurring wounds, the gas, and the acne are interconnected in some capacity. Unfortunately, my blood tests and consultations with doctors haven’t illuminated the situation. Has anyone else faced similar symptoms? If so, what did you find to be the underlying cause, and how did you resolve the issues?
Answers (1)
7/27/2025, 2:01:52 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with a complex set of recurring symptoms, including labial soreness, gastrointestinal discomfort, and acne issues, which can be frustrating and concerning. Let’s break down these issues and explore potential connections and solutions.
Main Points
- Recurring labial sore: This may relate to skin conditions or infections.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: Gas and abdominal pain can be linked to diet, stress, and prior Miralax use.
- Acne concerns: Stress and diet seem to play a role in your breakouts, and current treatments may not be adequate.
Explanation
- Labial sore: The persistent sore near your labia could be a type of chronic skin condition or irritation. Conditions such as hidradenitis suppurativa, friction from clothing, or even herpes (though it usually presents differently) could be considered. Factors like consistency in your vitamin and nutrient intake might play a role in the healing process.
- Gas and abdominal pain: Improvement after increasing your water intake is a positive sign, indicating that hydration can significantly help your gastrointestinal health. Stress is also a key factor that can lead to muscle tension in your abdomen, contributing to pain. Being aware of how your diet affects gas and pain (especially high-glycemic-index foods) will be crucial for management.
- Acne: The connection between stress and acne is well-documented. Stress hormones can increase oil production in your skin, leading to breakouts. Your attempts with tretinoin and Tazorac show you’re committed to treatment, but results can vary based on individual skin types and needs.
Next Steps
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For the sore: Consider consulting a dermatologist who can evaluate the sore directly. They may recommend topical treatments or specific investigations to understand what it is and how to prevent it.
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Gastrointestinal management:
- Maintain a food diary to identify triggers for gas. Gradually reintroducing fibers may help (e.g., vegetables, whole grains) if you haven’t already.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques (mindfulness, yoga), as managing stress can alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms.
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Acne care:
- Review skincare: If tretinoin and Tazorac aren't effective, consider experimenting with other active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which target acne differently.
- Look into seeing a dermatologist or an esthetician for professional-grade treatments or peels that can better address acne scars.
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Nutrition and supplementation: Aim for consistency in taking your vitamin D and iron supplements. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants (fruits and vegetables) and healthy fats (like omega-3s) can also support skin health and overall well-being.
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Monitor your progress: Keep a symptom journal to note any new developments or the effectiveness of changes you make, as this can provide valuable information for future consultations if needed.
Remember, while these symptoms can feel daunting, taking systematic steps to address them can lead to improvements over time. It's great that you're seeking solutions—you're on the right path! Let me know if you need further help.
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