Concerns and Symptoms Overlooked
I’m a 27-year-old woman and I feel like I’m falling apart. Over the last few months, my appetite has nearly vanished. Whenever I do eat, I feel nauseous, and the discomfort persists regardless of whether I’ve eaten or not. Additionally, I have been experiencing significant pain on my left side that makes it difficult for me to function. Recently, I discovered a lump deep in my armpit, and even before I started losing my appetite, my bowel movements have not been normal. I have shared all these issues with my general practitioner, yet she has denied me any imaging tests for my abdomen or armpit and hasn’t ordered any biopsies. I’m at a point of desperation, feeling emotionally overwhelmed and crying as I write this. The constant fatigue and pervasive sadness are becoming unbearable. I’ve repeatedly requested that she allow me to undergo a CT scan or an ultrasound, but she insists on running blood tests first, attributing my symptoms to a stomach virus that she believes has persisted throughout this time. Recently, she prescribed me meloxicam. I am reaching out for guidance regarding whether my symptoms merit further scanning or evaluation.
Answers (1)
8/26/2025, 9:03:13 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear that you're experiencing such distressing symptoms. Your concerns are valid, and it’s important to feel heard and understood regarding your health issues. Let's break down what you're facing and prioritize some actions you can take.
Main Points
You have a range of troubling symptoms including decreased appetite, nausea, pain on your left side, a lump in your armpit, and abnormal bowel movements. Emotional distress and fatigue further complicate your situation. You desire further evaluation, including imaging studies, to understand what's happening.
Explanation
Symptoms like loss of appetite, persistent nausea, localized pain, and unexpected lumps can be indicative of several conditions, some of which may require further evaluation through imaging tests. Your general practitioner has opted for a careful approach by ordering blood tests first to rule out common issues, including infections or inflammatory diseases. However, your feelings of anxiety and desperation are understandable, especially when you are not getting the answers you seek.
Next Steps
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Request a Comprehensive Evaluation:
- If you haven't already, document all your symptoms, their duration, and any changes you notice. This detailed account can help your doctor understand the urgency.
- Consider scheduling a follow-up appointment solely to discuss your ongoing symptoms, emphasizing the impact on your daily life and emotional health.
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Inquire About a Referral:
- If your current doctor continues to deny imaging, ask for a referral to a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist or an internist, who may have a different perspective on your case.
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Keep Track of Symptoms:
- Maintain a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any triggers you identify. This information can be valuable for any healthcare provider.
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Seek Support for Emotional Well-being:
- Given the emotional toll you are experiencing, consider reaching out for support from a mental health professional or a counseling service. Emotional resilience is essential while navigating health issues.
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Nutritional Support:
- In the meantime, focus on gentle, small meals that are easier to digest. Soups, smoothies, and soft foods can help you maintain some nutrition without overwhelming your stomach.
Your symptoms deserve attention, and you have the right to pursue comprehensive evaluation options that align with your concerns. Remember that it’s okay to seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns are overlooked. You are not alone in this, and support is available.
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