Concerns Regarding Skin Lesions and Health Issues
I am a 27-year-old woman, standing at 5 feet 2 inches and weighing 120 pounds, with no history of smoking. I’m reaching out to discuss a couple of skin lesions that have been worrying me. Due to limitations in uploading, I can only share one image here. The one I want to address now is darker in color, while the other one, which I mentioned earlier, has a pink appearance and has been present for several years. As a natural redhead, I've heard that our skin type can increase the likelihood of developing melanoma. My understanding is that melanoma typically doesn’t stick around for years; rather, it usually develops rapidly over a few years. I have a mole that changed from brown to black about eleven years ago. Although it hasn’t grown in size significantly, it has altered shape from a perfect circle to having a slight indentation, which I initially dismissed. Recently, I have had stomach issues that made me think more critically about this mole, especially since it’s located on the side of my lower abdomen. Another concern I have is a pink nodule on my back. I noticed this change a few years after giving birth to my daughter, who is now seven. At first, I disregarded it, but its persistence has caused me to reflect. Additionally, I've been experiencing concerning health symptoms, including extreme fatigue, tremors, and significant muscle loss, alongside very low creatinine levels that are not fluctuating. These symptoms are reminiscent of side effects I encountered from the Depo-Provera shot, which I used for nearly nine years, taking a brief hiatus in between. It’s been challenging to make progress with my health provider. My new doctor, who recently relocated from Florida, doesn't appear to acknowledge the ongoing health concerns I have had for the last two years. If there’s no documentation, it seems it’s forgotten. Despite my ADHD medication being managed by a previous physician, this current doctor focused more on my prescriptions than on addressing my pressing health issues. Notably, I recently had a mass removed from my throat, but it took quite some time to get that addressed, as I needed multiple tests to justify the pain medication I had been prescribed for a long duration. With all these factors in play, I am now taking initiative to research my situation and advocate for myself, aiming to secure necessary referrals and appointments. If anyone has experienced similar situations or has advice, I would be grateful for your input. Thank you for your support!
Answers (1)
4/1/2026, 3:34:09 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your concerns. Your health issues, particularly regarding skin lesions and persistent fatigue, warrant careful attention. Here’s a summary of key points, followed by explanations and actionable steps:
Key Points
- Skin Lesions: The mole that has changed over the years could raise concerns, especially since it has altered shape and color. Persistent skin lesions should always be evaluated.
- Fatigue and Symptoms: Your extreme fatigue, tremors, and muscle loss, especially in light of low creatinine levels, are concerning and deserve further investigation.
- Advocacy in Healthcare: It’s important to advocate for your health and ensure your concerns are acknowledged and addressed by your healthcare provider.
Explanation
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Skin Changes: Moles that change in color, shape, or texture can be indicators of skin issues, including melanoma. While it's true that some skin cancers can develop quickly, others may present slowly over years. Given your history and concerns, it’s essential to monitor changes closely.
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Health Symptoms: The symptoms you mentioned, including fatigue and muscle loss, could stem from various underlying health issues. These may relate to hormonal changes (such as those from Depo-Provera), nutritional deficiencies, or other medical conditions. Low creatinine levels can indicate muscle mass issues, among other things.
Next Steps
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Monitor Skin Lesions:
- Keep a close watch on both skin lesions, noting any changes in color, size, or discomfort. Consider taking clear photos to document those changes over time.
- If possible, seek a referral to a dermatologist who can perform a thorough examination of the lesions and provide a professional assessment.
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Address Health Symptoms:
- Prioritize a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss the symptoms you’re experiencing: extreme fatigue, tremors, muscle loss, and low creatinine.
- Bring a detailed list of your symptoms, their timeline, and any relevant medical history to ensure a comprehensive review during your appointment.
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Advocate for Yourself:
- If your current doctor is not addressing your concerns, consider requesting referrals to specialists, such as a dermatologist for skin issues and potentially an endocrinologist for your fatigue and muscle loss.
- Keep track of all your medical history and any treatments you’ve received in order to help your new doctor understand your situation better.
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Consider a Second Opinion:
- If you feel your concerns are not being taken seriously, seeking a second opinion from another physician may provide new insight and a different approach to your health issues.
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Nourish and Rest:
- Address lifestyle factors such as diet and sleep that may be contributing to fatigue. Ensure you are consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrients, and prioritize getting adequate rest.
Taking these steps not only helps you address your current concerns but also empowers you to take charge of your health. Remember to be persistent in seeking the care and answers you need, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need further information or support in the process.
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