Skin Changes and Muscle Twitches: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Skin Changes and Muscle Twitches: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello： <br>1. <br>The sudden appearance of many moles on your body is mostly related to genetic factors, but it may also be associated with sun exposure, hormonal changes, or a decline in immune function. <br>It is advisable to monitor the characteristics of the moles for any cha

Medical issues

Hello, doctor.
I recently noticed that I suddenly developed several moles on my body (not too many, but within a short period, I have developed about 5-10 moles, mostly on my upper body and arms).
Is this normal? Thank you.
Additionally, I have been experiencing some muscle twitching in various places on my body.
Is this normal? I’m not sure if it’s related to my recent diet, as I have been eating ice cream almost every day for about two weeks, specifically Häagen-Dazs, with a large cup (around 400 grams) almost daily, consuming about one and a half to two cups every five days.
I have also been eating other highly processed foods that are high in salt, sugar, and fat.
Is there any connection to the unusual sensation and slight pain in my left chest area, which feels a bit uncomfortable (I wonder if it’s related to my anxiety and stress)? Furthermore, I started eating ice cream excessively around October 30 and continued until November 15.
I would like to know if this ice cream addiction could have affected my health.
When would be a good time to schedule a full health check-up to assess any potential impacts? It has been a long time since my last full health examination.
Thank you, doctor.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/20

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello:
1.
The sudden appearance of many moles on your body is mostly related to genetic factors, but it may also be associated with sun exposure, hormonal changes, or a decline in immune function.
It is advisable to monitor the characteristics of the moles for any changes.
If you are concerned, you should consult a dermatologist.
2.
Muscle twitching in various parts of the body is generally related to the contraction of local muscle cells.
If the duration is brief and is not accompanied by muscle weakness or atrophy, there is usually no cause for concern.
This may be related to fatigue or stress.
However, if the twitching persists for a long time and is accompanied by pain, muscle weakness, or atrophy, it is recommended to see a neurologist.
3.
If you experience left-sided chest discomfort along with heart-related symptoms, and if it is accompanied by shortness of breath and cold sweats, occurs frequently, and lasts for an extended period, especially worsening during physical activity, it is advisable to seek medical attention from a cardiologist as soon as possible.
4.
Health issues caused by lifestyle habits are mostly chronic, and abnormal lifestyle patterns typically need to persist for a while before they affect the body.
It is recommended that you undergo a medical check-up to understand your current health status.
Additionally, it is advisable to start adjusting your diet and lifestyle habits as soon as possible, rather than waiting until health issues arise or problems are detected during a check-up, as this usually indicates a more serious condition.

Reply Date: 2023/11/20

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the sudden appearance of moles, muscle twitches, and other symptoms you are experiencing. It’s important to address these issues comprehensively, as they can be indicative of various underlying health conditions.

Firstly, the sudden emergence of 5-10 moles on your upper body and arms within a short period can be concerning. While it is not uncommon for new moles to develop, especially in younger individuals, any significant changes in your skin, such as the rapid appearance of moles, should be evaluated by a dermatologist. They can assess whether these moles are benign or if they require further investigation, particularly if they exhibit irregular shapes, colors, or sizes, or if they change over time. It’s essential to monitor any new growths and report any changes to your healthcare provider.

Regarding the muscle twitches you mentioned, these can occur for various reasons, including stress, fatigue, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances. Given your recent dietary habits, particularly the high intake of ice cream and processed foods, it’s possible that your body may be reacting to changes in your nutrition. High sugar and fat consumption can lead to fluctuations in energy levels and may contribute to muscle spasms. If these twitches persist or are accompanied by other symptoms, such as weakness or pain, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

You also mentioned experiencing discomfort in your chest, particularly on the left side, which you described as a strange sensation accompanied by pain and tightness. This symptom is particularly concerning, as it could be related to cardiac issues, especially given your anxiety and stress levels. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, as it can be a sign of a serious condition. A healthcare provider can perform necessary tests, such as an EKG or stress test, to rule out any cardiac problems.

As for your dietary habits, consuming large amounts of ice cream and other high-sugar, high-fat foods can lead to various health issues, including weight gain, insulin resistance, and increased cholesterol levels. These factors can contribute to cardiovascular problems and other metabolic disorders. It’s advisable to adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed foods and sugars.

In terms of when to schedule a full-body health check-up, it’s generally recommended to have regular health screenings at least once a year, especially if you have not had one in a while. Given your recent dietary changes and symptoms, it would be wise to schedule an appointment sooner rather than later. A healthcare provider can perform blood tests to check for cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and other important health markers.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be benign, it is essential to take them seriously, especially the changes in your skin and any discomfort in your chest. I recommend consulting with a dermatologist for your moles and a primary care physician for your muscle twitches and chest discomfort. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you on the necessary steps to take for your health.

Take care, and I wish you the best in your health journey.

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