Should I Be More Concerned About My Health?
Over the past year, I've experienced a range of symptoms that have gradually become more severe. After relocating to Pennsylvania, I’ve encountered challenges in securing a primary care physician who could potentially refer me to a neurologist if needed. The earliest appointment I have is scheduled for March, prompting me to consider whether waiting that long is advisable. In terms of my medical background, I have been diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hypermobile type) and have undergone numerous surgeries involving my shoulders, ankles, and wrists. I also have a significantly impaired diaphragm on the right side. My last procedure was a successful gastric bypass in July 2004, resulting in a maintained weight loss of approximately 120 pounds. A few months back, while attending a convention, I fainted unexpectedly and was caught by a celebrity I was eager to meet. Luckily, she was incredibly kind, but upon the arrival of emergency medical services, my blood sugar was found to be alarmingly low at 35. They quickly resolved this issue with glucose gel, and since then, I have become much more vigilant about monitoring my blood sugar levels, which has not dropped that low again. Despite this, I have been experiencing episodes of dizziness and occasional speech difficulties, where I struggle to articulate my thoughts clearly. This has become more pronounced over the past week and a half. Occasionally, my hands and fingers exhibit involuntary movements, almost as though I lack control over them. These episodes are sporadic, occurring once or twice before disappearing for days at a time. Additionally, for the past two weeks, I have suffered from headaches located on the lower right side of my head. Over the past six months, I have fallen while walking outdoors about six or seven times, one incident resulting in the first broken bone of my life, my elbow. When I search for information regarding my symptoms online, the results seem quite alarming, yet I’ve been managing these issues for some time and find myself uncertain about whether I should pursue a CT scan or other diagnostic tests. I often feel unfazed by my health concerns due to their longstanding nature, but my husband insists that I should take them more seriously. The challenge is compounded by my lack of a primary care provider here in Pennsylvania, further complicating things. I am a 46-year-old female, weighing 140 pounds and standing at 5’3". My current medications include Robaxin, Gabapentin, Dilaudid, and a Fentanyl patch (50mcg), which I have been taking consistently for several years without any changes. I appreciate any guidance you can provide as I navigate this situation.
Answers (1)
12/17/2025, 3:30:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your concerns. Given your history and the range of symptoms you’ve described, it’s understandable to be feeling uncertain about your health. The ongoing symptoms, particularly the recent changes, warrant careful consideration, especially since they could signify potential complications.
Main Points
- Your symptoms, including dizziness, speech difficulties, involuntary movements, and headache, combined with a history of fainting and low blood sugar, are concerning and should be carefully monitored.
- It’s critical to find ways to communicate these issues effectively to a healthcare provider, even while waiting for your upcoming appointment.
Explanation
Your pre-existing condition of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hypermobile type) may predispose you to certain complications, and the experiences of fainting, low blood sugar, and the recent neurologic symptoms could suggest additional stress on your body or emerging issues. While it’s tempting to brush off longstanding ailments, significant changes or worsening symptoms should never be taken lightly.
Low blood sugar episodes can lead to fainting, but your dizziness and speech difficulties may indicate something neurological or related to your current medication. Frequent falls and headaches further highlight the need to assess your balance and neurological function.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms Closely: Keep a detailed diary of when symptoms occur, their duration, and any triggers you notice. Note specifics about dizziness, speech changes, and any episodes of involuntary movements.
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Blood Sugar Management: Continue to monitor your blood sugar regularly, especially after any episodes of dizziness or fainting. If you experience low blood sugar again, try to document its potential cause (e.g., meal timing, physical exertion).
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Consider Urgent Care or Telehealth Options: If symptoms worsen or if you experience severe episodes such as persistent speech difficulties, loss of coordination, or changes in consciousness, seek immediate evaluation. In the meantime, explore telehealth services that might be available to consult with a healthcare provider sooner than your upcoming in-person appointment.
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Share Your Concerns: When you meet with the healthcare professional at your scheduled appointment in March, clearly communicate all your symptoms, their progression, and your concerns about how they relate to your existing conditions. It may be beneficial to request referrals to specialists, such as a neurologist or an endocrinologist, based on their initial findings.
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Stay Proactive About Finding a Doctor: If possible, try to find a local primary care provider or a clinic that can assist you more quickly. You might also ask for recommendations from local support groups for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome patients or consider virtual platforms for younger patients.
Your husband’s concern is valid, and being proactive about even subtle changes can be crucial given your medical history. You're doing the right thing by seeking guidance—it's essential to advocate for yourself and your health. If you need to discuss specific symptoms further or have questions about managing them, feel free to reach out again.
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