Multiple Symptoms: When to See a Family Doctor

Recently, I have been experiencing multiple symptoms in my body?

Recently, I have been experiencing multiple symptoms and I'm unsure which specialist to see first.
Should I go directly to a family medicine doctor for an examination? Over the past two months, I have frequently visited the doctor due to a sore throat, which has recurred about three times.
This time, the sore throat is more severe; the doctor mentioned that there are lesions, and eating or drinking feels like being pricked by needles or makes it difficult to swallow.
On Tuesday, I woke up with a slight sore throat, saw the doctor on Thursday and received medication, but on Friday night, I noticed that my fingertips and toes felt numb when pressed.
I have three spots on my fingers that resemble blisters but are not painful when pressed.
My thumb feels swollen, and the edges of my heels and big toes are very itchy and hard to stop scratching.
There are no flakes, but scratching causes pain, and there are no wounds on my feet.
Additionally, my scalp has many small bumps that feel like dried wound exudate.
Recently, regardless of whether I take medication, I feel slightly drowsy.
This morning, when I lifted the laundry basket, my fingers felt very painful, and bending them caused a sensation of swelling.
I'm not sure which specialty I should consult or what tests I should undergo.
Could this be related to a drug allergy or another underlying condition?

Jia Jia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/30

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, based on your description, the symptoms are not very typical.
It is recommended that you first consult your family physician for an initial evaluation, and then determine if a referral to a specialist is necessary.
Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/07/30

More Info

When faced with multiple symptoms, especially when they seem to be interconnected, it can be quite overwhelming to determine the best course of action. In your case, it sounds like you are experiencing a variety of issues, including throat pain, skin reactions, and sensations of numbness or tingling in your extremities. Given the complexity of your symptoms, visiting a family doctor (or primary care physician) is a prudent first step.

Family doctors are trained to handle a wide range of health issues and can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms. They can assess whether your symptoms are related to a single underlying condition or if they stem from multiple sources. For instance, your throat pain could be due to an infection, while the skin issues and tingling sensations might suggest an allergic reaction or a neurological issue. A family doctor can order necessary tests, such as blood work or imaging studies, to help identify the root cause of your symptoms.

In your situation, it is essential to communicate all your symptoms clearly to the family doctor. Make a list of everything you are experiencing, including the timeline of when each symptom began, any medications you are currently taking, and any recent changes in your lifestyle or diet. This information will help the doctor make a more accurate diagnosis.

Regarding your throat pain, if it has been persistent and is accompanied by difficulty swallowing, it may require further investigation. The presence of sores or lesions in the throat could indicate a viral or bacterial infection, and the doctor may want to perform a throat culture or prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected.
The skin issues you described, such as the blisters and itching, could be indicative of an allergic reaction, possibly to a medication or something in your environment. It’s crucial to mention any new products you have used recently, including soaps, lotions, or even foods that could have triggered an allergic response. The doctor may refer you to a dermatologist for further evaluation if necessary.

The tingling and numbness in your fingers and toes could be a sign of nerve compression, poor circulation, or even a systemic condition like diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. The family doctor may conduct a neurological examination and possibly refer you to a neurologist if they suspect a more serious underlying issue.

In terms of medication allergies, it is essential to inform your doctor about any previous reactions you have had to medications. They may perform allergy testing if they suspect that your symptoms are related to an allergic reaction.

In summary, seeing a family doctor is a wise choice when dealing with multiple symptoms. They can provide a holistic approach to your health, coordinate any necessary referrals to specialists, and help you navigate the complexities of your symptoms. It’s important to advocate for yourself during this process, ensuring that all your concerns are addressed and that you receive the appropriate care. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.

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