Seeking Relief from Ongoing Pain
Hi there, I visited my doctor yesterday and shared my concerns with her. She informed me that my lab results didn’t indicate anything particularly alarming, and suggested I wait for my condition to worsen before receiving a proper diagnosis (really?). I'm reaching out as I genuinely need assistance; I feel exhausted and long for some relief. My persistent symptoms include: - Feeling depressed and anxious, accompanied by mental exhaustion. - Experiencing pain in my knees, ankles, lower back, upper back, and chest, which ache as if I’ve just completed a marathon. - My muscles feel unusually heavy, almost like they're completely devoid of strength. (I underwent some imaging tests that revealed muscle spasms, and though I’ve started physical therapy, the discomfort lingers.) I also battle persistent fatigue, where even minimal tasks like doing dishes or showering leave me drained. I feel perpetually worn out. My lab results indicated elevated levels: the C-reactive protein (CRP) was 37, exceeding the normal upper limit of 30. Additionally, my red blood cell count was 5.80 (normal max being 5.40), hemoglobin at 16.9 (where 16.0 is the upper reference), and hematocrit at 49.4 (the normal cap being 47.0). My bilirubin levels were also high, though I can’t recall the exact number, which tends to be consistently elevated. This summer, I haven’t been able to engage in any exercise. I attempted to start working out but felt overwhelmingly fatigued afterward. It’s hard to discern if this is solely linked to my depression and anxiety. My year began with the near loss of my grandfather; my mother and I took care of him until his passing. Shortly after, I began university, leading to a hectic pace that barely allows me time to rest. Could this be a contributing factor? I wish my doctor had provided more comprehensive guidance on these matters. Instead, she merely advised waiting for my condition to deteriorate further before taking action. When I mentioned my uncertainty about whether it was just mental fatigue, she offered no further insights. She also inquired about my childhood asthma, suggesting it might explain my fatigue, but that was the extent of our discussion.
Answers (1)
8/15/2025, 3:31:30 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are dealing with a lot right now, including persistent pain, fatigue, and emotional distress after significant life changes. While it’s understandable to feel frustrated with your doctor's advice, there are steps you can take to seek relief and address your symptoms proactively.
Summary of Main Points
You are experiencing a combination of physical and emotional symptoms, including persistent pain, fatigue, and feelings of depression and anxiety. The elevated CRP levels suggest some inflammation in your body, which could relate to your symptoms.
Understanding Your Situation
Your symptoms, including the widespread pain, muscle heaviness, and fatigue, may stem from several interconnected issues. Chronic stress and emotional trauma, like the loss of your grandfather and the pressures of starting university, can contribute significantly to mental and physical fatigue. The inflammation indicated by your lab results might suggest an underlying condition, but it can be worsened by stress and lack of physical activity.
Suggested Next Steps
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Pain Management:
- Physical Therapy: Continue your physical therapy, and work closely with your therapist to address specific exercise techniques that could relieve muscle spasms without overwhelming you.
- Pain Relief Options: Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help manage your pain. Monitor how your body responds and ensure you adhere to recommended dosages.
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Mental Health Support:
- Counseling: Consider finding a therapist or counselor who can help you navigate your feelings of depression and anxiety, especially related to your recent loss and the stress of university life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective.
- Support Groups: Connecting with others who have experienced similar loss can provide emotional support and coping strategies.
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Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Gradual Activity Increase: Start with light physical activities, such as walking or gentle stretches. Aim for small, manageable goals, allowing your body to adjust without causing additional fatigue.
- Sleep Hygiene: Focus on getting restful sleep. Establish a calming bedtime routine, avoid screens before sleep, and aim for regular sleep hours to combat fatigue.
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Monitoring and Self-Care:
- Symptom Journal: Keep a diary of your symptoms, daily activities, and mood. This can help identify patterns and triggers, which can be shared with any healthcare provider you may see in the future.
- Nutritional Support: Eating balanced meals that include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support your overall health.
Conclusion
While it’s concerning to feel you should wait for symptoms to worsen, taking proactive steps to manage your physical and mental health can empower you. Focus initially on pain management, mental health support, and gradual physical activity to improve your overall well-being. Reach out to a support network, whether friends, family, or online communities, to share your journey. Please let me know if you'd like more specific guidance or resources on any of these topics.
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