Seeking Guidance: Enduring Months of Uncertainty and Fear
The past couple of months have been exceptionally challenging for me, pushing me into a state of constant anxiety, particularly over concerns about pancreatic cancer. To provide some context, I’ll outline my background and habits. My dental health is in poor shape; most of my teeth are decayed or even dead. I have been a heavy nicotine vaper for approximately eight years. Daily alcohol consumption was part of my routine for four years, though I generally limited myself to 2-3 drinks each evening. I quit drinking entirely as soon as I became aware of my troubling symptoms. Notably, I had my wisdom teeth extracted just a week before these symptoms manifested. I’m experiencing a variety of troubling signs, but the most alarming are a significant weight loss of 30 pounds within a month, accompanied by muscle atrophy. I’m also dealing with intermittent pain in my left upper quadrant (LUQ), alongside a subtle and fluctuating swelling. My stools have been discolored, presenting as pale tan and accompanied by oily stools (steatorrhea), though things have improved somewhat after being prescribed Creon during the evaluation process. Additionally, there is pain in my left testicle, which mirrors the discomfort I feel in my LUQ. I’ve been plagued with widespread, intermittent aches throughout my body. There is noticeable swelling in the glands beneath my chin and along my jawline, and there might be a small node located at the back of my neck near my hairline. My urine appears bright yellow and hot, and I find myself needing to urinate frequently, often feeling an intense thirst. Blood tests have returned mostly normal results, except for slightly elevated segmented neutrophils and a minor increase in bilirubin levels. I have undergone multiple CT scans—one for my abdomen and pelvis, and another for my head and neck, which revealed only a mucous retention cyst in the right maxillary sinus and a tracheal diverticulum that showed no fluid. An ultrasound of my testicles also yielded no significant findings, and I had a clear upper endoscopy conducted by a gastroenterologist. Despite visiting five different emergency rooms and contacting my family doctor on a near-daily basis, I am feeling increasingly lost in this situation. I am desperate for any kind of advice or information. Currently, I'm waiting for insurance approval for an MRI, and my anxiety is overwhelming. I feel like I’m on the brink of giving up, searching for any direction amidst this turmoil.
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 12:20:52 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are going through a very distressing time, and your myriad of symptoms coupled with the uncertainty surrounding your health is understandably overwhelming. I want to help you find clarity and provide support during this difficult period.
Key Points:
- Significant Symptoms: Your weight loss, upper quadrant pain, changes in stool, and anxiety are concerning and require careful attention.
- Medical Evaluation: You've undergone various tests which have largely resulted in normal findings, which is reassuring in many respects, yet your symptoms persist.
- Managing Anxiety and Health: While awaiting further evaluations (like your MRI), managing anxiety and taking care of your physical health is crucial.
Explanation:
Your symptoms could stem from multiple factors given your medical history and lifestyle choices. The significant weight loss, pale and oily stools, and intermitted pain suggest possible issues with digestion and absorption, which can occur due to conditions affecting the pancreas or biliary system. The mentioned common findings are positive as they rule out some serious conditions, but the connection between your symptoms is still unclear, warranting further investigation.
Actionable Steps:
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Focus on Nutrition:
- Since you've experienced significant weight loss, ensure you're consuming nutrient-dense foods. Aim for a diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, and fruits/vegetables. Given your steatorrhea, consider working closely with a dietitian who can help tailor a plan that meets your nutritional needs and aids digestion.
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Hydration:
- Stay well-hydrated. Given your symptoms involving thirst and urine color changes, aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, which can also help with any potential dehydration.
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Continue Monitoring Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed symptom diary, noting daily changes in pain levels, mood, dietary intake, and bowel habits. This will help provide valuable information to any healthcare providers involved in your care.
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Address Anxiety:
- Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to manage your anxiety. Consider mindfulness apps or counseling sessions to help navigate your mental health concerns amid these physical symptoms.
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Follow Medical Guidance:
- Once your MRI is approved, ensure that you adhere to follow-up appointments to discuss results comprehensively with specialists. Consider seeking a second opinion or continuity of care from a gastroenterologist who may provide a fresh perspective on your ongoing symptoms.
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Seek Support:
- Don't hesitate to reach out for emotional support from friends, family, or support groups. Your feelings matter, and talking through your concerns can often alleviate some burden.
You are not alone in this journey. It's commendable that you are seeking answers and prioritizing your health. I urge you to keep advocating for yourself and remain engaged with your healthcare providers. Please feel free to reach out for additional advice or specific information as needed.
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