Feeling Lost About My Test Results and Doctor's Silence!
Hello! I'm a 27-year-old female, measuring 5 feet tall and weighing 139 pounds. I have a medical history that includes bipolar disorder type 2, anxiety, ADHD, and previously diagnosed gastroparesis, which has seemingly gone into remission according to my last gastric emptying study (GES). I also struggle with unspecified migraines, sciatica, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C). My current medication regimen consists of Lamotrigine 200mg daily, Buspirone 40mg per day, Propranolol 40mg daily, Nexium 20mg, and Lisdexamfetamine 30mg. I do not consume alcohol or cigarettes, but I smoke a small amount of marijuana once a day to manage nausea; I prefer not to be high. For the past three years, I have experienced episodes of unexplained weakness and numbness on the right side of my body, including my arm, leg, and face, along with occasional transient nerve pain in my facial area that lasts for around ten seconds. This facial pain has been a persistent issue for most of my life but has recently increased in frequency and intensity. For the last three weeks, I have been suffering from severe nausea, which is distinct from what I would normally feel during a gastroparesis flare-up since there’s no associated pain. My appetite has dropped significantly, leaving me weak and struggling with daily activities, including climbing stairs. Over this period, I have lost weight consistently; I weighed 144.4 pounds three weeks ago, and now I'm down to 139 pounds. While this may not seem drastic at first, it’s indicative of a concerning trend. In fact, since mid-July, I have unintentionally shed pounds, starting at 161 pounds on July 15th, suggesting that my appetite may have been dwindling for longer than I realized. Moreover, I developed significant pain in my upper and mid-back this past week. Although I had previous back spasms and a sciatica diagnosis, I typically manage my symptoms through stretches. However, even rest and methods such as massages or heat application have proven ineffective this time. I've also noticed numerous small, painful bruises appearing, which I suspect are due to my low food intake. Additionally, for the past three weeks, I’ve experienced sporadic itchiness all over my body—without any visible rash or dry skin—though scratching sometimes leads to bruising. This situation prompted me to visit my physician last week. They performed an electrocardiogram (EKG) and some blood tests. While the EKG was normal, most of my bloodwork returned within normal ranges, aside from a slightly elevated anion gap (14) and a positive Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) test showing IgG, IgM, and EBNA positivity but negative for EA. My doctor mentioned that it appeared I might have encountered mono, which left me perplexed because my symptoms do not align with what I researched about mononucleosis. In fact, it feels like the symptoms I do have are markedly different. Unfortunately, my doctor has been unresponsive to my inquiries for several days, leaving me frustrated. I haven’t been physically intimate with anyone in over six months and don’t share personal items such as utensils or cups. I work in a secluded environment and mainly stay home otherwise. I'm really confused and would appreciate any insights since I’m unsure how to interpret this information and am eager to feel better. Thank you for allowing me to share all these details—I wanted to be as comprehensive as possible!
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 7:40:53 PM
OpenHealth AI
I can understand how stressed and confused you must feel regarding your test results and symptoms, especially after you've shared such detailed information about your health challenges. Let's break this down to address your concerns and help you find clarity.
Main Points:
- Recent Symptoms and Test Results: Your unexplained weakness, significant nausea, weight loss, new pain, and the recent finding of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) positivity all need to be carefully considered.
- Need for Follow-Up: Given your ongoing symptoms and the lack of communication from your physician, seeking clarity and further evaluation is vital.
Explanation:
- Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): You mentioned having a positive test for EBV, which can indicate a past infection or mononucleosis. While many people experience fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat with mono, some may have atypical symptoms or none at all. The symptoms you're describing, such as weakness, nausea, and changes in appetite, might be linked to EBV or could be caused by other factors related to your existing conditions.
- Nausea and Weight Loss: Your significant weight loss over several weeks is concerning, particularly if it's tied to nausea and a reduced appetite. This could hint at several issues, including nutritional deficiencies or complications from your stomach conditions like gastroparesis or GERD.
- Pain and Bruising: The new pain in your upper and mid-back, along with unexplained bruising, can be related to muscle issues, nutritional deficiencies, or even systemic conditions. The itchiness without a rash is also noteworthy if it persists or worsens.
Next Steps:
- Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including their frequency, duration, and any triggers. This information can be beneficial for any healthcare provider you consult.
- Prompt Follow-Up: Don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor again about getting clarity on your test results. If they're unresponsive, consider reaching out to another healthcare provider for a second opinion, especially regarding the potential effects of EBV and how it relates to your current health situation.
- Nutritional Support: Focus on maintaining proper nutrition to counteract weight loss. Try to eat small, nutrient-dense meals, and consider consulting with a dietitian specialized in gastrointestinal issues to ensure you’re getting enough calories and nutrients.
- Physical Care: Since you’re experiencing pain and discomfort, continue gentle stretches and consider other physical therapies such as physical therapy to improve mobility and manage pain effectively, if accessible.
- Monitor Your Condition: If you experience any worsening of symptoms like severe headaches, chest pain, persistent shortness of breath, or neurological symptoms (e.g., persistent weakness), seek immediate evaluation.
Your concerns are valid, and it's crucial to advocate for your health. Don't hesitate to voice your feelings and inquire about your specific symptoms when you do connect with a medical professional again. I’m here for any further questions or support you need.
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