Over a Month of Fear and Illness Without Answers: Feeling Worse
Hello everyone, for nearly two months now, I have been facing a serious health concern. As someone already grappling with OCD, Panic Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder, this situation feels even more overwhelming. It has been roughly a month since my initial visit to the emergency room, and my symptoms seem to be escalating instead of improving. I have an appointment scheduled with a gastroenterologist for an endoscopic ultrasound in about a month, but each passing day adds to my anxiety about the potential progression of my condition. I've reached out to my doctor repeatedly and visited three different emergency rooms across various locations. During this time, I've undergone two CT scans—one focused on my upper abdomen and the other on my pelvis and lower abdomen. Additionally, I had an ultrasound performed on my testicles because I've been experiencing severe pain in my left testicle after eating, which has been intermittent throughout this ordeal. In my consultation, the gastroenterologist reviewed the scans and indicated that the pancreas and other organs appeared normal, which has left me perplexed. My concern is heightened as I have experienced an abrupt weight loss of 30 pounds within a month. While I've recently eliminated alcohol and sugar from my beverages, increased my physical activity, and have always had a high metabolism, I can’t shake the feeling that such significant weight loss could be indicative of something more serious, like cancer (Cachexia). Moreover, I've noticed a distinct bulge or swelling under my left rib cage. This swelling does not feel hard; rather, it resembles a buildup of fluid or inflammation in the muscle tissue. It can be painful at times, particularly after large meals. I've been prescribed antibiotics and have been taking Pepto Bismol daily, as two of the emergency rooms suspect a potential stomach ulcer. Additionally, I suspect I may have swollen lymph nodes beneath my jawline and under my earlobes, which only become noticeable when I bite down or flex those muscles. This is why the doctors have claimed they could not detect any swelling. My temperature in the ER was 101 degrees Fahrenheit, but it has since stabilized around 97 degrees. I constantly feel fatigued, as if my body is deteriorating day by day. My medical expenses have rapidly accumulated, and I often find myself waking up in tears, desperately searching for a doctor who would perform tests for pancreatic cancer without requiring a referral or a lengthy wait. Also relevant is my history of periodontal disease caused by years of dental issues, which has been linked to an increased risk of pancreatic and colorectal cancers. Other troubling symptoms I’m experiencing include dark urine, recurring testicular discomfort (particularly post-meals), frequent urination, persistent thirst, chills, pain behind my eyes, discomfort in my neck, and a sensation of pain on the left side of my throat when swallowing. I’ve also dealt with night sweats, and my stool was previously yellow and frothy before taking Pepto Bismol; it is now dark brown, nearly black, but I understand this change is a common side effect of the medication when taken regularly.
Answers (1)
7/28/2025, 1:50:51 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear about what you've been going through. It's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially given your existing mental health conditions and the ongoing uncertainty regarding your physical health. Let's break down your concerns and identify some steps you can focus on to help alleviate your anxiety while promoting your well-being.
Main Points:
- Your significant weight loss and symptoms warrant careful monitoring, but many potential causes may not be serious.
- Avoiding stress and increasing support for anxiety is crucial while waiting for more diagnostic information.
- Focus on symptom management and maintaining your overall health in the meantime.
Explanation:
Given the duration and severity of your symptoms, it's understandable to worry about conditions like cancer, especially with significant weight loss and gastrointestinal issues. However, many gastrointestinal problems can also cause similar symptoms without indicating a severe underlying illness. The fact that your scans and current tests did not reveal major issues is a positive sign, though the persistent symptoms are understandably concerning.
Weight loss, altered bowel movements, and the bulge you mentioned near your rib cage could stem from various causes, such as gastrointestinal dysfunction, inflammation, or even widespread anxiety manifesting in physical symptoms. The presence of dark urine and chills may also indicate dehydration or possible infections, but it’s crucial to manage these symptoms appropriately.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Monitoring and Management: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting when they worsen or improve, and any specific triggers such as certain foods or activities. This information can be very helpful for your gastroenterologist.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids and eating balanced meals to support your body. Since significant weight loss can weaken you further, consider eating smaller, more frequent meals to ease any discomfort and help with weight stabilization.
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Stress Management Techniques: Engage in relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga to help manage anxiety. Consider reaching out to a mental health professional if possible, as they can provide strategies tailored to your experience.
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Communicate with Your Healthcare Providers: Keep your doctors informed about any changes in symptoms, especially concerning your weight, pain, or new symptoms. If anxiety about pancreatic cancer is at the forefront of your mind, express this during your appointments – clear communication can lead to more appropriate care.
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Seek Support: Talk to trusted friends or family about your feelings; connecting with others, whether in person or online, can alleviate some weight off your shoulders. Support groups (either for OCD/Panic Disorders or for those facing chronic illness) can provide an additional avenue of connection.
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Investigate Further Testing Options: If your symptoms worsen or you continue to feel unwell, consider discussing alternative ways to expedite testing with your doctor, ensuring they understand your concerns about possible underlying diseases.
Remember, while your symptoms feel extremely pressing and distressing, you are taking steps to understand and address them. Please continue to communicate your concerns with your doctors, and try to practice patience as you await the upcoming gastroenterology appointment. You are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you navigate your health challenges.
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