OpenHealth Q&A

Seeking Answers for Unexplained Symptoms

I’ve become increasingly frustrated with conventional treatments, as they seem ineffective. A recent issue of involuntary urination has developed which is both distressing and embarrassing. ## Health Summary and Ongoing Issues ### Health Background (2022–2024) - **Breast Lump:** In September 2022, I was diagnosed with a fibroadenoma/cyst in my right breast located at 9:00, approximately 2 cm from the nipple. As of September 2023, it remained unchanged, with no further imaging conducted in 2024, and I’ve only experienced the sensation of the lump. - **Pituitary Tumor:** Discovered in September 2022 through an MRI and blood tests, I underwent treatment with cabergoline for a year. A December 2023 MRI revealed no abnormalities, and my prolactin levels have stabilized. - **Additional Symptoms:** I experience monthly night sweats which I attribute to PMS. ### Timeline of Events in 2025 #### January - **New Complaint:** Severe pain in the right breast, more intense than PMS-related discomfort, which disturbed my sleep. - **Additional Incident:** A urinary tract infection followed a recent skiing trip; unsure if it’s connected to other symptoms. #### March ̵ - **First Mammogram:** Results indicated dense breast tissue. - **Ultrasound Exam:** An ultrasound was performed on tissue at 9:00, this time 4 cm from the nipple, contrary to earlier findings (2 cm). I only discovered this discrepancy in July, as noted later. #### May - **MRI:** Conducted during an unsuitable time in my menstrual cycle (7 days before menstruation). The report confirmed no malignancy but indicated significant hormonal interference, alongside observed unusual thickening in the axillary area, warranting follow-up. I wasn’t made aware of this finding until recently. #### July - **July 18:** Discovered a hard, painless lump in my left armpit persisting for about two weeks, prompting my PCP to order blood tests and an ultrasound, which I noted while exercising. - **July 20:** Experienced sudden, severe chest pain primarily on the right side, leading to a trip to the emergency room. Tests including EKG and blood work returned normal. - **July 25:** Ultrasound examinations of the left armpit and right breast appeared normal. A left axillary lymph node was classified as “benign-appearing.” I learned during this visit about the difference between the previous measurements (2 cm versus 4 cm). - **July 31:** Faced intense pelvic pain en route to the airport, prompting another ER visit. CT and ultrasound results indicated pelvic fluid, fatty liver deposits, and swollen inguinal lymph nodes. - Blood work results (CBC) indicated significantly low levels of white blood cells, lymphocytes, neutrophils, and red blood cells compared to prior tests. - No viral tests had been conducted, yet it was suggested that a viral infection might be behind the blood results. - Missed my period with no UTI detected. #### August - **Aug 1–4:** Experienced high fevers, a rash on my face, legs, and feet, body/joint pain, swelling in the right knee, and a menstrual absence for the first time in years. - **Aug 5:** During a visit to my PCP, tests were ordered to investigate potential autoimmune diseases and infections. Results returned negative for autoimmune disorders. - Tests for HIV, syphilis, EBV, COVID, Lyme disease, and Colorado tick fever returned negative. - A positive result for the Coxsackie virus was found, indicating recent activity. - **Aug 8:** A repeat CBC remained low, revealing a recent active case of Parvovirus. - **Aug 10:** Symptoms began to improve, though my knee remained swollen, and I dealt with lumps and groin pain. - **Aug 17–27:** Pelvic pain, fevers, and night sweats resurfaced. - An ENT specialist ordered a core biopsy for a neck lump (not the usual fine needle aspiration), emphasizing the difference for diagnostic clarity to rule out lymphoma. - I decided to cancel my trip to Europe to focus on the biopsy. Noted swelling on the right side of my face accompanied by numbness and tingling. - **Aug 28:** The hospital could only provide a fine needle aspiration, not a core biopsy; I declined due to cost and since the lump began to shrink, possibly indicating a viral cause. - **Aug 29:** - Post-period, I noticed swelling and pain in my right breast along with pale patches on both breasts. - A visit to a walk-in clinic discovered a **new lump beneath the right nipple**. They provided imaging and specialist referrals, although I have reservations about returning to the facility where my original lump was overlooked earlier. #### Current Situation (September 2025) - Ongoing symptoms include: - Persistent swelling in the right knee despite therapy and occasional pain in my shins. - Groin pain radiating to the lower back with a pea-sized lump still noticeable. - Palpable lumps in the neck and armpit (smaller in size). - Frequent cracking noises from my body, notably from the right hip, knee, and foot. - Right breast remains swollen and painful. My skin tone has changed, revealing veins more prominently than before, resembling bruises after showering. - Urinary incontinence has intensified over the past three days, requiring pads and changes of underwear. My urine is clear and I am well-hydrated, even after cutting down on caffeine. - Feeling fatigued and experiencing shortness of breath, primarily when lying down. - Awaiting a new appointment with my PCP and repeat imaging procedures. ### Concerns and Potential Diagnoses - **Reactive Arthritis:** Possibly post-viral, explaining ongoing swelling and enlarged nodes, which might contribute to bladder issues. I sincerely hope this is the case, with the breast issue being a benign anomaly. - **Autoimmune Disorders?:** Although previous tests returned negative, am I still at risk? - **Follicular Lymphoma:** A potential consideration given the fluctuating lymph nodes, weight changes, and night sweats. This is a diagnosis I truly wish to avoid. - **Breast Cancer with Metastasis:** The emergence of a new lump alongside lymph node involvement raises concerns. This possibility is deeply distressing to me.

Answers (1)

9/11/2025, 7:41:03 PM

OpenHealth AI

I understand that you are experiencing a complex range of symptoms that are both distressing and frustrating, particularly in light of your medical history and recent developments. It's important to take each of these concerns seriously while also focusing on what steps you can take next.

Key Points

1. You have multiple ongoing health issues, including urinary incontinence, painful swelling, and concerns about breast lumps and lymph nodes.
2. Your worries may be related to reactive arthritis, autoimmune disorders, or more serious conditions like lymphoma or breast cancer.
3. Addressing urinary incontinence is a pressing concern that needs immediate attention.

Explanation

Urinary Incontinence: This is a common issue that can stem from various causes including infections, pelvic floor dysfunction, or even neurological factors related to your previous health conditions. Given its sudden intensification, it is crucial to address this openly and with care.

Breast Concerns and Lumps: The presence of new breast lumps and changes in your lymph nodes does raise legitimate concerns that need to be further evaluated through imaging and potentially biopsy if advised. It’s good to follow up on these findings with your healthcare provider.

Next Steps

1. Immediate Management of Urinary Incontinence:

   • Keep a journal of your symptoms: Track when incontinence occurs, any potential triggers, and what you were doing at the time. This can be useful for healthcare providers.
   • Pelvic Floor Exercises: Start practicing Kegel exercises which can strengthen pelvic muscles. These can often help with urinary control. To do them, squeeze the muscles you would use to stop urination, hold for a few seconds, and then release. Aim for 10 repetitions, three times a day.
   • Bladder Training: Attempt to go to the bathroom on a schedule (e.g., every 2-3 hours) to help retrain your bladder.

2. Follow Up with Healthcare Providers:

   • Schedule an appointment with a urologist or a pelvic floor specialist if possible. Discuss your symptoms and concerns directly.
   • Continue your ongoing communications with your primary care provider. Be clear about your urgent symptoms and the new lump in your breast to ensure that your imaging and lab work are expedited.

3. Monitor Multiple Symptoms:

   • Keep observing and note any changes in your breast lumps and swollen lymph nodes. Seek imaging as soon as possible.
   • Report any new symptoms such as increased pain, changes in bowel habits, or general health deterioration, as these might require immediate action.

4. Stress Management and Support:

   • Consider joining a support group for individuals with similar health issues or seeking counseling. Extended health challenges can lead to stress and anxiety, which can worsen physical symptoms.

Conclusion

I hope that by taking these steps, you can find some relief and clarity regarding your health concerns. Remember, it's crucial to communicate openly with medical professionals about all your symptoms and ongoing worries. You are doing a great job navigating a complicated situation, and I encourage you to prioritize your health and well-being. Please feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further guidance.