Sudden Escalation of Pain and New Symptoms at 27
Background: Having grown up in a home filled with abuse, I developed complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) as a result. In my early twenties, I battled both mono and COVID, and since the age of 19, I’ve dealt with varying degrees of fatigue and pain. About two and a half years ago, I underwent extensive testing after showing symptoms indicative of interstitial cystitis and fibromyalgia. Ultimately, the only diagnosis I received was "chronic pain," and I was prescribed a low dose of naltrexone. At that time, doctors ruled out multiple sclerosis and any neurological issues. A routine blood test did not raise any significant concerns, which is why I wasn’t referred to a rheumatologist. For roughly a year, I had shown considerable improvement, with only occasional flare-ups of pain. However, I recently encountered a severe emotional setback due to a traumatic experience, which greatly impacted my mental health and seemed to coincide with a notable rise in my pain and fatigue. Additionally, changes in weather have occurred here, complicating the situation further. The pain has manifested as a severe, burning sensation that feels overwhelming, hindering my ability to concentrate. The most significant discomfort is in my hands and hips. I also experience noticeable swelling each morning; regardless of how much water I consume, I stay persistently parched with a dry mouth. Fatigue is relentless; for example, I slept for ten hours last night and then took an additional two-hour nap today. Despite employing my usual coping strategies—physical therapy exercises, yoga, walking, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and heat therapy—the only relief I've found was from the heat. My blood pressure and glucose levels remain within normal ranges. My wife, who has her own rheumatological issues (specifically undifferentiated connective tissue disease), has been encouraging me to have blood tests done. I plan to take care of this as soon as possible, but I’m eager to hear other people’s insights regarding my recent experiences and the symptoms I’ve been facing. Could it be that my mind is converting grief into physical pain? Is there a chance this is simply a new manifestation of my chronic pain or fibromyalgia? Does my situation appear to warrant a rheumatological evaluation? Or might the naltrexone simply be losing its effectiveness?
Answers (1)
12/16/2025, 6:00:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your detailed background and current experience. It sounds like you're dealing with a lot, both emotionally and physically, and I want to help you find clarity and relief.
Main Points:
- Your recent escalation of pain, fatigue, and other symptoms may be related to previous diagnoses and the impact of emotional stress on your body.
- It is sensible to consider a rheumatological evaluation given your symptoms and history.
- Addressing your coping strategies and potential adjustments in your treatment could help improve your situation.
Explanation: Chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia can indeed fluctuate in severity due to various factors, including emotional stress and physical changes, such as weather. Your description of overwhelming burning pain, fatigue, and morning swelling indicates that your body may be reacting strongly to stressors, which can manifest physically. The dry mouth and persistent thirst may suggest dehydration or other issues that warrant further examination, especially since your hydration efforts don't seem to help.
Considering the stabilization and then escalation of your symptoms, it is possible that the naltrexone may need adjustment, or other treatment options could be more effective now. Emotional health can significantly affect chronic pain, potentially leading to what is sometimes referred to as somatic symptom disorder, where emotional distress translates into physical symptoms.
Next Steps:
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Schedule Blood Tests: As you are already planning, getting comprehensive blood tests can help rule out any new concerns and provide insight into inflammation levels, kidney function, and other factors relevant to your symptoms.
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Consider a Rheumatological Evaluation: Given the combination of your symptoms and your wife's rheumatological history, a consultation with a rheumatologist may provide further evaluation and insight into your condition. They can assess for inflammatory disorders, connective tissue diseases, or rheumatoid conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.
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Review Medications with a Doctor: Discuss the current effectiveness of naltrexone with your healthcare provider and consider whether your treatment plan needs adjustments based on your recent symptoms.
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Focus on Coping Strategies: Continue your current coping mechanisms like heat therapy, which you find beneficial, and consider adding stress-reduction techniques. Activities like mindfulness, meditation, or talking therapies could help manage emotional stress, potentially leading to improvements in physical symptoms.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a symptom diary to track any changes, noting triggers, pain levels, and emotional health. This will provide valuable information for healthcare providers.
It's great that you're seeking insights and being proactive about your health. Make sure to take one step at a time, and don't hesitate to lean on your support network, including your wife, during this challenging period. You deserve both physical and emotional relief.
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