Weight Loss and Neck Pain: Your Father's Health Concerns

Weight loss over time, along with pain near the Adam's apple?

Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about my father.
Over the past year, he has lost nearly 10 kilograms, going from 60 kilograms to 50 kilograms.
He has undergone a full body check-up and there were no significant issues; his gastrointestinal function is normal, and his blood sugar levels are also normal.
However, he has hypertension, and during one of his check-ups, the doctor mentioned that his kidneys are not in good condition, but he did not undergo further testing.
Since then, he has not experienced any major health issues, but recently he has lost more weight.
He mentioned that he has pain near his Adam's apple, which hurts even when not pressed.
I would like to ask the doctor what illness my father might have.
If he needs to see a specialist or undergo further tests, which department should he consult and what tests should be performed? Thank you for your assistance.

zhan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/29

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, significant weight loss requires a comprehensive evaluation.
It is advisable to consult your family physician first, who may refer you to a specialist if necessary.
Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/05/29

More Info

It sounds like your father is experiencing a concerning combination of weight loss, neck pain, and a history of high blood pressure and kidney issues. Weight loss of about 10 kilograms (approximately 22 pounds) over the course of a year, especially when it is unintentional, can be a significant red flag that warrants further investigation. While you mentioned that he has undergone a full-body check-up and that his gastrointestinal and blood sugar levels are normal, the fact that he has lost weight and is experiencing neck pain suggests that there may be underlying health issues that need to be addressed.

Possible Causes of Weight Loss and Neck Pain
1. Thyroid Issues: One potential cause of unexplained weight loss is a thyroid disorder, such as hyperthyroidism. This condition can lead to increased metabolism, resulting in weight loss, and it can also cause muscle weakness or discomfort in various areas, including the neck.

2. Malnutrition or Dietary Changes: If your father has changed his diet or is not eating enough due to a lack of appetite or other reasons, this could lead to weight loss. Malnutrition can also manifest as muscle pain or discomfort.

3. Chronic Pain or Inflammation: Conditions such as arthritis or other inflammatory diseases can cause pain in the neck area. If your father has been less active due to pain, this could contribute to weight loss as well.

4. Kidney Issues: Given that his kidney function was previously noted to be suboptimal, it’s essential to consider that kidney disease can lead to various systemic symptoms, including weight loss and pain.

5. Cancer: Although it may be a less likely cause, unexplained weight loss can sometimes be a symptom of malignancy. If there are any other concerning symptoms, such as changes in appetite, fatigue, or unusual lumps, this should be evaluated promptly.

Recommended Steps for Evaluation
Given your father's symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Primary Care Physician: Start with a visit to his primary care physician (PCP). The PCP can perform a comprehensive assessment, review his medical history, and conduct a physical examination.

2. Endocrinologist: If thyroid issues are suspected, a referral to an endocrinologist may be warranted. They can perform specific tests to evaluate thyroid function.

3. Neck Pain Evaluation: For the neck pain, a visit to a rheumatologist or an orthopedic specialist may be beneficial. They can assess for any musculoskeletal issues or inflammatory conditions that may be causing the pain.

4. Kidney Specialist: If there are ongoing concerns regarding his kidney health, a nephrologist may be necessary for further evaluation and management.

5. Imaging Studies: Depending on the findings from the initial evaluations, imaging studies such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be recommended to assess the neck and any potential underlying issues.

Conclusion
In summary, your father's weight loss and neck pain are concerning symptoms that should not be overlooked. It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause and to initiate appropriate treatment. Encourage your father to be open about his symptoms and to follow through with any recommended evaluations. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, especially if there are underlying health issues that need to be addressed.

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