No Worries from My Doctors About My Weight
At 19 years old, I’ve faced concerns from various individuals regarding my weight, with many advising me to seek professional medical assistance. Recently, I began experiencing discomfort with abdominal pains, pressure in my chest during physical activity, and persistent fatigue, which prompted me to finally make an appointment. To provide some context, my current BMI stands at 12.9, yet my lab results from five months prior were nearly flawless. During my visit to a cardiologist, after conducting a basic evaluation and an EKG, he reassured me that, given my age, he had no worries about my health. When I inquired about whether my weight posed any risks, he reiterated that as long as my lab results remained positive, he did not view it as a concern. Additionally, I consulted my primary care physician for a medication review related to my prescription of lisdexamfetamine, a medication that effectively suppresses appetite and has been prescribed for my ADHD since childhood. Even after noticing a 20-pound weight reduction since the initial prescription, my doctor expressed no alarms. This leads me to wonder: Are people overreacting about my situation? I repeatedly hear suggestions to consult a doctor, yet both my specialists have dismissed any worries. Furthermore, I don't perceive myself as dangerously underweight. While I acknowledge that my weight loss is intentional, the severity of the situation doesn't seem justified by the reactions I’ve encountered.
Answers (1)
8/1/2025, 6:20:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
Your situation raises some important points regarding your weight, health concerns, and the feedback from both your cardiologist and primary care physician. It’s understandable to feel conflicted about the varying opinions you’re receiving.
Key Points:
- Your BMI of 12.9 is significantly below the healthy range and can lead to health issues.
- The abdominal pain, chest pressure during physical activity, and fatigue you’re experiencing should not be overlooked.
- While medical professionals have reassured you, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely and consider your overall well-being.
Explanation:
BMI (Body Mass Index) is a common tool used to assess if a person has a healthy body weight for their height. A BMI under 18.5 is categorized as underweight. Although your lab results were good and your doctors seemed unconcerned about immediate risks, your specific symptoms and low BMI indicate that something may need further exploration.
Your use of lisdexamfetamine, an appetite suppressant, is significant given its potential impact on your weight. While it may help manage ADHD, it’s essential to ensure it’s not exacerbating issues related to weight and health.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Symptom Monitoring: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including abdominal pain, chest pressure, and fatigue. Note when they occur and any activities associated with them. This documentation can be helpful in future consultations.
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Nutrition Assessment: Evaluate your meal patterns and nutritional intake. Consider maintaining a balanced diet rich in calories, proteins, and healthy fats, aimed at gradual weight gain to a healthier level.
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Review Medications: Follow up with your primary care physician to discuss the impact of lisdexamfetamine on your weight and explore possible adjustments or alternatives if your current experiences are concerning.
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Communicate Concerns: If symptoms persist or worsen, or if you feel unsure about your weight management, consider seeking a second opinion from a healthcare provider who specializes in nutrition or weight management. It’s essential to feel confident in your care and address any concerns you have.
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Engage in Gentle Activity: If safe, engage in light physical activity that doesn’t exacerbate your symptoms but encourages overall well-being.
Always prioritize listening to your body and seeking help when you need it. Your health is important, and having an open dialogue with your healthcare team about these concerns can lead to better overall management of your situation.
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