Unexplained Body Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Unexplained systemic pain?

Hello Doctor: Recently, while being intimate with my boyfriend, he inserted his finger into my vagina (without engaging in sexual intercourse).
After returning home that day, I first experienced weakness in my right arm, and the next day, I began to feel irregular pain in various parts of my body below the head (arms, fingers, palms, inner thighs, toes, heels, chest, etc.), which lasted for a few seconds to a few minutes before disappearing.
This pain also included the vagina and abdomen, but there are no visible symptoms on the vulva.
This has been ongoing for several days, and I would like to ask a few questions: 1.
Could this systemic pain be caused by a vaginal infection? (I do feel pain in the vagina.) 2.
If it is not a vaginal infection, what could be causing this systemic pain? It doesn't feel like autonomic nervous system dysfunction (which I have experienced before), and I would like to understand what the issue might be.
3.
Following up on the previous question, which specialty should I consult for this issue? I apologize for the numerous questions, and I greatly appreciate your time in responding.
Wishing you well.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/10

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! Regarding whether it is a vaginal infection, I recommend you visit a gynecology clinic for evaluation.
As for the pain in other areas, please consider if there has been any overuse; you may want to consult a rehabilitation clinic.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2020/02/10

More Info

Understanding unexplained body pain can be a complex issue, especially when it involves multiple areas of the body and persists over several days. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a range of symptoms that could be linked to various causes. Let's break down your questions and explore potential explanations for your symptoms.

1. Could this widespread pain be caused by a vaginal infection?
While vaginal infections can cause localized pain and discomfort, they typically do not lead to widespread body pain. Common vaginal infections, such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, usually present with symptoms like itching, unusual discharge, or localized pain. However, if you are experiencing pain in the vaginal area along with systemic symptoms, it is essential to consider other factors. Infections can sometimes lead to systemic symptoms if they are severe or if there is a related condition, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause pain in the lower abdomen and may radiate to other areas.

2. If it’s not a vaginal infection, what could be causing this widespread pain?
There are several potential explanations for your symptoms. One possibility is that you are experiencing a form of myofascial pain syndrome, where muscle pain occurs in various parts of the body due to muscle tension or stress. This can be exacerbated by physical activity or emotional stress. Another consideration is the possibility of a neurological issue, such as nerve compression or irritation, which can lead to pain in different areas of the body. Additionally, anxiety or stress can manifest physically, causing symptoms like muscle tension and pain. Given that you mentioned a history of autonomic nervous system dysregulation, it’s possible that stress or anxiety could be contributing to your current symptoms.

3. Which specialist should you consult?
Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be advisable to start with a visit to a primary care physician. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly some laboratory tests to rule out infections or other underlying conditions. Depending on their findings, they may refer you to a specialist such as a gynecologist for further evaluation of any potential vaginal issues or a neurologist if they suspect a nerve-related problem. If muscle pain is suspected, a referral to a pain specialist or a physical therapist might also be beneficial.

In summary, while your symptoms may not directly indicate a vaginal infection, they warrant a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause. It’s essential to communicate all your symptoms clearly to your healthcare provider, including the onset, duration, and any other relevant details. This will help them make an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as addressing physical symptoms, so consider discussing any stress or anxiety you may be experiencing with your healthcare provider as well.

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