Seeking Clarity Amidst Confusing Health Issues
(F19, about to turn 20) Hi everyone! I've turned to reddit in hopes of getting some clarity, as my thoughts feel jumbled and my attempts at searching for answers online have led to overwhelming results. At this point, I feel lost regarding which specialist to approach. I've consulted numerous doctors already. To give you a brief summary, there have been some puzzling benign findings since 2024, especially more recently. About a year ago, POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) was suspected. I matched nearly all the suggested criteria apart from experiencing fainting spells and the specific requirement of an increase in heart rate while standing. Nevertheless, I took it upon myself to follow this lead and started therapy with a professional who also believed I might have the condition and provided me with some exercise guidelines. By late 2024, I had to quit my job altogether due to persistent pain that hindered my ability to fulfill any tasks. This unfortunate trend continued at my subsequent jobs within a few months. I managed to work just a single shift as a hostess but had to leave immediately because of intense physical discomfort, despite merely walking and standing for a few hours. Fast forward to October 2025, when a pulmonary embolism was detected in my left lung, which led to my prescription for blood thinners—something I truly despise. This resulted in frightening chest pain and numbness in my arms and face unlike anything I've previously encountered. Daily chest pain became a new norm, though it has recently somewhat diminished. A couple of weeks later, I experienced spontaneous pneumomediastinum on two different occasions, leading to an ICU admission due to the intense pain from this benign condition while doctors tried to determine the issue. However, the common response I received was that pain shouldn't be associated with these findings, implying it wasn’t a cause for concern. Just last Friday, I found myself in the emergency room for what felt like the worst abdominal pain I have ever experienced. They discovered “free fluid,” which, surprising to no one at this point, was deemed benign and not responsible for any pain. Today, I am facing slightly bloody stools, fluctuating between panic and logic. The only link I can draw right now is my stomach discomfort coinciding with the start of Zonegran. I dread returning to the ER again for a lengthy visit, only to be told nothing is seriously amiss, yet I’m also wary of neglecting a potential issue. It's a difficult gamble. What is the underlying problem with my health?! Until POTS emerged, I had never faced anything like this. Have any others documented experiences where benign findings coincided with chronic pain? I feel completely adrift, and holding down a job feels like an uphill battle. Any insights would be tremendously appreciated. ❤️ (Currently, I'm on Eliquis 5mg twice daily, Zonegran 100mg twice daily for migraines, gabapentin 100mg three times daily, along with other medications I take as needed. The pain relief mostly comes from robaxin 750mg as required.)
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 3:30:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are going through an incredibly challenging and confusing time with your health. It’s understandable to feel lost when experiencing multiple, complex symptoms, especially when previous consultations haven’t provided clarity. Let’s focus on the main points and actions you can take moving forward.
Summary of Key Points:
- Complex Symptoms: You are dealing with varied symptoms, including potential POTS, chest pain, abdominal issues, and recent findings like free fluid and slightly bloody stools.
- Impact on Daily Life: These health challenges have significantly affected your quality of life and ability to work.
Understanding Your Situation:
Your experience with multiple symptoms and their interactions can lead to frustration and anxiety. It’s important to recognize that some patients can experience benign findings alongside chronic pain or other health issues, which can sometimes be connected to conditions like POTS or other underlying conditions.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Diary: Start keeping a detailed diary of your symptoms, medications, diet, and any activities. This information can help identify patterns and triggers, which may provide valuable insights for your healthcare providers.
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Prioritize Specialist Consultations:
- Primary Care Provider (PCP): Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms collectively. Ensure they are well-informed about all your experiences and medications.
- Neurologist or Pain Specialist: Since you are dealing with chronic pain and migraines, a specialist may help manage your symptoms more effectively.
- Gastroenterologist: Given the digestive issues and blood in your stools, a gastrointestinal specialist can evaluate these concerns more thoroughly and may use diagnostic tools like endoscopy if necessary.
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Mental Health Support:
- Experiencing chronic health issues can greatly impact mental well-being. Consider talking to a mental health professional, as therapy can be a supportive space for processing your experiences and managing stress.
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Medication Review: Discuss your current medications with your doctors, particularly Zonegran which you suspect may be linked to your abdominal pain. They might adjust dosages or suggest alternatives to mitigate side effects.
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Urgent Symptoms Action Plan: If you experience severe symptoms like intense abdominal pain or changes in stool color, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, don’t hesitate to get help.
Reassurance:
You are not alone, and it’s okay to seek a second opinion or additional consultations until you feel heard and understood. Take small steps towards managing your health and don't hesitate to reach out for help when needed. Your well-being is the priority.
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