OpenHealth Q&A

Concerns Regarding Possible Fungal Infection: Seeking Guidance

Age: 19, Height: 5'3", Weight: 120 lbs. Currently dealing with fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Since my discharge from the mental health facility a few weeks ago, I've encountered a series of distressing and painful symptoms. It all commenced with urinary issues—experiencing cloudy, malodorous urine, difficulty initiating urination, a weak stream, pain during urination, and an increased urge to go. Alongside this, I suffered from significant back and abdominal pain, leading me to suspect I might have a severe urinary tract infection (UTI) that could escalate to a kidney infection. Having had a UTI previously, recent lab results indicated an alarming level of something that suggested an infection, prompting an emergency visit for evaluation. I had also been grappling with intense itchiness but didn't mention it. The ER staff claimed everything was normal and suggested I just "increase my water intake," attributing the pain to my fibromyalgia. Frustratingly dismissive. After resuming my regular medication, I experienced brief relief, only for my conditions to return, intensified. My abdomen throbbed painfully, markedly different from my normal IBS discomfort, and an overwhelming wave of fatigue hit me. I dealt with hot flashes, dizziness, nausea, headaches, coughing, a bout of congestion, and persistent urinary difficulties. It reached a point where I found myself sobbing while trying to schedule a doctor's appointment, only to learn that I first required financial assistance and proof of income (as I'm unemployed and lack insurance). They advised me to visit urgent care instead. During my visit to urgent care, I struggled to walk or stand. While fibromyalgia often causes these challenges, it felt distinctly unusual this time. After assessment, the doctor expressed concern about my symptoms but stated that not much could be done and recommended I go to the ER across the street. I was in such bad shape that a nurse had to wheel me there. At the ER, they conducted evaluations, drawing blood, performing a urinalysis, and swabbing my nose for COVID-19, flu, and RSV—results all came back negative. The wait for a patient room was prolonged, but once I was settled, I learned that my blood pressure and blood sugar were dangerously low. They had me consume juice, eat crackers, and placed me on an IV. The diagnosis indicated a respiratory infection (though they didn't specify which) and they dismissed my other symptoms as being related to my chronic illnesses. Feeling frustrated, I inquired about imaging, but they withheld, claiming there was no indication for it in my charts. Instead, I received allergy medication, nausea relief, and my gabapentin. About ten minutes after being treated, my condition deteriorated—I began to shiver, dizziness escalated, and my throat and chest felt constricted and painfully dry, making breathing laborious. I struggled to catch my breath, wheezing and desperate for assistance, yet the nurse dismissed my concerns as hypochondria. She kept insisting I must "calm down," but I was resolute; my acute chest and throat pain felt genuine, and I was genuinely unable to breathe. Eventually, I received medication to numb the pain and a cough syrup prescription, and I was discharged. Interestingly, two women I met in the mental health facility previously mentioned experiencing similar symptoms, with one even showing me alarming photos of hives she developed. This has led me to fear that we might have contracted a serious or contagious illness, and I wish to identify it. Since leaving the ER, my weakness has escalated; muscle pain has begun radiating to my upper neck, dizziness persists, and I've had additional troubling breathing incidents. There are instances where I suddenly feel an overwhelming drowsiness—not just fatigue—where I can be engaged in conversation or watching TV, and suddenly my head droops as I drift off, reminiscent of narcolepsy. I'm eager to consult with a physician about these ongoing issues, especially since my experiences in hospitals have felt unproductive. Should I request any specific tests or imaging? And should I raise concerns regarding potential exposure to harmful substances like mold or poisoning from my time in the hospital? What steps should I take next?

Answers (1)

8/15/2025, 6:51:13 PM

OpenHealth AI

I understand that you are experiencing a complex set of symptoms that are both distressing and frustrating, particularly in light of your chronic conditions. Your concerns regarding a possible fungal infection or other serious illness, influenced by your experiences in a mental health facility, are valid, and I’m here to help provide direction on how to move forward.

Main Points:

1. You’re experiencing multiple troubling symptoms that require further evaluation.
2. It’s important to address both your physical symptoms and potential environmental exposures.
3. Seeking appropriate medical tests and consultations is crucial for your well-being.

Explanation:

Your symptoms, including urinary difficulties, back and abdominal pain, severe fatigue, dizziness, and respiratory issues, suggest the need for a thorough investigation. Given your existing conditions like fibromyalgia and IBS, it’s possible that they may exacerbate or mask other underlying issues. Additionally, your concerns about infection or exposure to mold are legitimate, especially considering the context of your recent acute symptoms.

Next Steps:

1. Reach Out for a Medical Appointment:

   • Given your recent experiences, promptly seek a primary care physician who will take your concerns seriously. Explain your symptoms comprehensively. Consider prioritizing appointments at facilities where you've felt more satisfied with care.

2. Request Specific Tests:

   • When you consult with a physician, consider requesting the following:
     • Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for infections or anemia.
     • Urinalysis and Urine Culture: To investigate potential urinary tract infections further.
     • Chest X-ray: If respiratory symptoms persist, to rule out infections in the lungs.
     • Allergy Testing: If you suspect mold exposure or other allergens.

3. Document Symptoms and Changes:

   • Maintain a symptom diary, noting the timing, duration, and nature of your symptoms. This can provide invaluable information to your healthcare provider.

4. Advocate for Yourself:

   • Be persistent about your symptoms, especially concerning unusual experiences like overwhelming drowsiness. Communicate that you seek clarification on potential underlying issues and require thorough evaluations.

5. Take Care of Yourself:

   • Ensure you stay well-hydrated and rest as much as needed. Eat small, nutritious meals that can help manage your energy levels. Engage in gentle stretching or light movement to see if it alleviates any muscle pain.

6. Consider Mental Health Support:

   • Given the emotional toll your health concerns take on you, consider speaking with a mental health professional who can support you through these challenging times.

Conclusion:

Your well-being is paramount, and gathering specific information while being proactive about your health needs will empower you in managing your symptoms. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, but taking these steps can help clarify your health concerns and lead you towards the care you need. Let me know if you have more questions or need further assistance!