In Need of Support
Greetings, I'm a 23-year-old male who actively participates in sports. It was around April that I started experiencing persistent pain in my shoulder and sacroiliac joint. By July, after taking finasteride for a period of three weeks, my joint discomfort intensified significantly and began affecting almost every joint in my body. Additionally, I noticed that my joints became unusually loose, leading to my shoulders partially dislocating from their sockets. This also brought on severe cognitive fog and a sensation of pressure in my head. I am losing my sense of optimism. If anyone has insights or assistance to offer, I would greatly appreciate it. To highlight, I have never had hypermobility nor have I been particularly flexible before this issue arose.
Answers (1)
2/8/2026, 2:30:27 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing with your shoulder pain and joint discomfort. It's important to address these symptoms comprehensively, especially given their impact on your daily life and well-being.
Key Points:
- You are experiencing persistent joint pain that has worsened after starting finasteride.
- Additionally, you have symptoms of cognitive fog and pressure in your head, alongside unusual joint looseness and dislocations.
- It's critical to consider all aspects of your health and manage these symptoms effectively.
Explanation:
The symptoms you describe could stem from several factors, including potential side effects of finasteride, which are known to affect certain individuals. Joint pain and cognitive changes can occur due to various conditions, including inflammation or autoimmune responses. The sudden increase in joint looseness and dislocations, coupled with cognitive fog, may require further investigation to rule out underlying issues.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Track your pain levels, any patterns in your activity, and how your symptoms change over time. This can help identify triggers or improvements.
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Physical Activity Modification: While it's great that you're active in sports, consider modifying your activities to avoid exacerbating the pain, especially focusing on low-impact exercises that don't stress the joints.
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Pain Management: You can try over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as needed, following the dosage instructions on the package.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you're well-hydrated and consuming a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like fruits, vegetables, fatty fish, and nuts) which may help reduce inflammation.
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Mindfulness and Cognitive Support: Engage in relaxation techniques like mindfulness or meditation to help manage the cognitive fog and maintain a positive outlook. Simple breathing exercises can also relieve stress.
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Reassess Finasteride Use: If you suspect that finasteride is contributing to your symptoms, consider discussing this with a healthcare professional who can advise on next steps regarding the medication.
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Monitor Symptoms: Be vigilant for any new or worsening symptoms, especially concerning cognitive issues, as these require timely attention.
Your health and comfort are paramount, and while it may feel overwhelming, taking these practical steps can provide some relief and clarity. If symptoms persist or worsen, please consider reaching out for further evaluation to ensure you're on the best path to recovery. Remember, you're not alone in this, and there are effective ways to tackle these challenges.
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