Unexplained Mark on Arm?
I’m a 17-year-old female, weighing 55 kg and measuring 164.5 cm, and I’m not currently on any medication. About two weeks ago, while in the shower, I discovered a new mark on my arm that resembles either a round or oval shape, something I have never experienced before. There were no injuries that could explain its sudden appearance. The outline is not very distinct at the bottom, while the upper portion displays a more rounded edge. Its dimensions are similar to a pencil eraser – although, in reality, it tends to resemble an oval more than a perfect circle. The color is a shade of brown, slightly darker than my natural skin tone, but not excessively dark. I’m not certain if this is connected, but I’ve noticed a significant decrease in my appetite lately, often only managing to eat two meals a day. My weight dropped from 58 kg to 55 kg as a result. Additionally, I’ve been experiencing intense epigastric pain, rated around 7 out of 10, which occurs sporadically and can last for extended periods. I suspect stress might be a contributing factor to this discomfort. Should I seek medical advice regarding either of these issues?
Answers (1)
8/19/2025, 8:41:07 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about the unexplained mark on your arm, especially coupled with changes in appetite and abdominal pain. Let’s break this down into manageable parts and focus on actions you can take.
Main Points:
- Unexplained Mark: The mark on your arm could be a benign skin condition, but it’s important to monitor it.
- Changes in Appetite and Pain: Significant changes in appetite and persistent abdominal pain require attention.
Explanation:
The mark on your arm could be various things, including a benign mole or a skin condition. Given that it appeared suddenly and lacks a definitive outline, monitoring its size, color, or any other changes over the next few days will be essential. Regarding your appetite and abdominal pain, stress can definitely contribute to these symptoms, but other underlying conditions should be ruled out.
Next Steps:
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Monitor the Mark:
- Keep track of the mark’s size, color, and any changes. Take photographs to note updates.
- If it grows, changes color, or you develop new symptoms (like itchiness or bleeding), it’s important to seek medical advice.
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Address Appetite and Epigastric Pain:
- Nutritional Habits: Try to maintain a balanced diet. Eating smaller, more frequent meals might help if your appetite is low. Include nutrient-dense foods that provide energy, like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
- Pain Management: Consider over-the-counter medications like antacids if symptoms of epigastric pain are related to acidity, but be mindful of dosage and instructions.
- Stress Reduction: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or physical activities like yoga. These can help manage stress and may alleviate some pain.
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Regular Monitoring:
- Track your symptoms daily—when pain occurs, how severe it is, and any eating patterns. This record can be helpful if you decide to consult a healthcare professional later.
If your abdominal pain worsens or your appetite continues to decline, seeking medical advice would be important. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns. Let me know how you feel about these suggestions or if you need further clarification on anything!
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