Seeking Insights on Mysterious Symptoms at 22
Hello, I’m a 22-year-old woman (almost 23) and I’m reaching out for some advice. While I understand that many of my symptoms may require testing for a diagnosis, I'm hoping to gather some insights from others since my doctor hasn’t been very helpful. I have to wait until April to consult with a neurologist, which leaves me in a bit of a dilemma for the next few months. To detail my situation, for approximately three years, I have been experiencing severe hot flashes and bouts of nausea. Interestingly, it all began after I stopped consuming alcohol and marijuana. Now, I find that even being around those substances triggers intense hot flashes for me, and oddly enough, I continue to have them at random times even when I’m completely sober. If I’m anxious, had poor sleep, skipped a meal, or feel the need to use the restroom – it’s like an instant hot flash that can last for hours. Additionally, about six months ago, I suddenly found myself struggling to stand or walk properly. It was quite abrupt, and I hadn’t altered my lifestyle, medications, or nutrition in any way. I realized the severity of the situation when I was unable to rise by myself, requiring my boyfriend to lift me off the floor. Nowadays, I sometimes need to use a cane for balance since my legs become so unstable that I risk falling. During my recent visit with my doctor, he ran tests to rule out conditions like arthritis and lupus, among other standard checks for vitamin deficiencies, and everything returned normal. However, I’ve noticed new issues emerging, as now my arms and hands have started to ache alongside my legs. At times, lifting something as light as a gallon of milk feels like a monumental task, leaving my arms in pain as if I had been lifting something exceedingly heavy. My doctor has suggested trying steroids as a potential remedy. The only medication I currently take is Lexapro at a dosage of 10mg. I truly have no clue about the underlying cause of my symptoms, and I feel disregarded by my doctor during consultations. I apologize for the lengthy message, but I’m really hoping some of you might have thoughts or suggestions.
Answers (1)
2/11/2026, 7:40:58 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're going through a challenging time with your symptoms, and it's understandable to seek more clarity and insights while waiting for your neurologist appointment. Your concerns about hot flashes, instability, and body aches require careful attention. Here’s a summary and some suggestions to help you navigate these symptoms in the meantime.
Main Points:
- Symptoms Overview: You are experiencing severe hot flashes, nausea, balance difficulties, and muscle pain, which have all emerged in the past few years.
- Previous Tests: Initial tests have ruled out some autoimmune conditions but have not identified the cause of your ongoing symptoms.
- Medication Considerations: Your current medication (Lexapro) and a possible trial of steroids are part of the discussion with your doctor.
Explanation:
The combination of hot flashes, muscle pain, and balance issues may suggest a few potential pathways, including hormonal imbalances, neurological conditions, or even anxiety-related physical responses. The fact that these symptoms intensified after stopping alcohol and marijuana could indicate a reaction to withdrawal or lifestyle changes.
Next Steps:
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Track Symptoms: Maintain a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting when hot flashes occur, their duration, and any potential triggers (like stress, meals, or significant activities). This can help identify patterns and provide essential information for your neurologist.
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Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Hydration: Ensure you're drinking enough water throughout the day. Dehydration can exacerbate symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness.
- Balanced Diet: Regular, nutritious meals can aid in stabilizing your mood and energy levels. Focus on incorporating protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
- Manage Stress: Utilize stress-relief techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, or gentle yoga, which may help alleviate some of the anxiety and potentially the hot flashes.
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Physical Support: Since you may need a cane for balance, consider exploring physical therapy. A therapist can work with you on balance exercises that can strengthen your legs and improve your stability.
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Monitor Medication Effects: If steroids are prescribed, keep an eye on how they affect your symptoms. Sometimes medications can have unexpected impacts, and communicating any observed changes is essential.
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Stay Engaged with Healthcare: If you feel unheard in your consultations, proactively bring your symptom diary to your next visit or consider seeking a second opinion if you feel your concerns are not being fully addressed.
Conclusion:
Your symptoms are complex, and addressing them will require patience and thorough investigation. Tracking your symptoms and making some daily adjustments can significantly impact your well-being as you await more professional evaluations. Remember, you are your own best advocate—continue to seek clarity and support for your health journey. Let me know if you need more information on any specific aspect.
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