Seeking Guidance on Persisting Pain
Hello everyone! I'm relatively new to this forum, so I appreciate your understanding. I'm a 24-year-old male, standing at 5’7” and weighing 183 pounds. I deal with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). To give you some background, I’m passionate about fitness, enjoy weightlifting, and am a big fan of jiu jitsu. Earlier this year, I was prescribed antibiotics to combat a stubborn sinus infection that seemed never-ending. Shortly after starting the antibiotics, I underwent surgery to correct a deviated septum, which significantly alleviated my sinus issues. However, during my treatment with doxycycline, I experienced my first migraine, which was quite intense. I’ve had headaches before, but nothing compared to that experience. Since then, I’ve been dealing with continuous back pain, which radiates through my lower back, legs, feet, and arms. It feels like there's increasing pressure in my veins. I can’t tell if this is a result of inflammation or something more concerning. My body rarely feels at ease, and I find myself questioning whether this is due to chronic stress or if there's a more serious underlying issue. Before starting the antibiotics, I felt perfectly fine without any of these symptoms, so this change has come as quite a shock. I recently landed my dream job in the military, and I'd like to maintain both that and my well-being. I'd greatly appreciate any advice on how to effectively communicate these concerns to a physician. I recognize that this has been building over the past year, but given that my septoplasty and sinus issues were separate challenges, they have resulted in significant expenses. Thankfully, with my improved insurance, I have a better chance of addressing my health issues. Thank you in advance for your help!
Answers (1)
2/18/2026, 1:40:54 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing a challenging combination of symptoms that have significantly impacted your well-being, especially after multiple medical interventions. Your back pain and other symptoms following antibiotic treatment and surgery deserve attention. Let's break this down clearly:
Main Points:
- You have ongoing pain following antibiotic treatment and surgery.
- It's important to differentiate between potential inflammation, stress, or another underlying condition.
- Communication with a physician about your symptoms and concerns is essential.
Explanation:
Chronic pain can stem from various sources, especially after experiencing significant changes in your health due to medication and surgery. Antibiotics, like doxycycline, can sometimes lead to side effects, and conditions like GERD can contribute to unexplained pain. The pain radiating through your back, legs, and other areas could be related to muscle tension, nerve irritation, or another underlying condition. Stress and lifestyle changes can also play a significant role in chronic pain, leading to increased muscle tension and discomfort.
Next Steps:
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your pain's location, intensity, duration, and any triggers or relieving factors. Note when you feel the pressure in your veins and any other accompanying symptoms. This diary will help you articulate your experiences to a physician.
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Prioritize a Consultation: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider who can assess your symptoms. Be clear about your concerns, especially mentioning the back pain, radiating sensations, past antibiotic use, and the impact on your daily life and new job.
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Discuss Stress Management: Consider incorporating stress relief techniques, such as mindfulness, yoga, or light physical activity, which can help manage both stress and pain levels.
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Evaluate Physical Activity: Given your background in fitness and jiu jitsu, ensure that you’re engaging in safe practices that accommodate your pain. Speak with your physician about modifying your routine to avoid exacerbating your symptoms.
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Stay Engaged: Join support groups or forums where you can connect with others experiencing similar issues. Sharing experiences may provide valuable insights and coping strategies.
By approaching your healthcare provider with a thorough understanding of your symptoms and concerns, you'll be better positioned to seek the most effective treatment options. It's good to hear that you have improved insurance; use this opportunity to prioritize your health, especially with your exciting new job ahead. Don't hesitate to follow up for more guidance or tips as you move forward.
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