Four Years of Discomfort: Seeking Answers for Persistent Symptoms

A problem that has troubled me for four years?

Hello Dr.
Zheng,
I am very grateful for your taking the time to answer my questions.
The background of this matter is somewhat lengthy, as I have been troubled by discomfort in my body for a while.
I work at an accounting firm, and in July 2000, I traveled to Thailand with colleagues.
One night, we went to a bar and drank a lot.
Afterward, I went to the restroom, and a woman (I believe she was a woman, as I was somewhat disoriented at the time) performed oral sex on me and kissed me, but there was no further contact.
In hindsight, I find it absurd, as I am not that kind of person.
After returning to Taiwan, I was very worried about the possibility of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
I began to research related literature and learned that HIV can cause body heat.
Since that day, I have felt that my back has been in a constant state of warmth, which is very uncomfortable, especially when my back is against something; this sensation becomes more pronounced (sometimes accompanied by a dull pain, but it improves somewhat in air-conditioned rooms).
This condition has persisted until now.
For the past four years, I have not had any intimate relationships.
I have also gone to the Taipei City STI Prevention Clinic for blood tests and visited the urology department at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital.
In March 2003, I underwent a full health check-up at Chang Gung, and all results were normal.
Therefore, I do not know what is causing this issue.
However, this symptom has left a shadow in my mind and has caused me significant physical and psychological distress.
I sincerely hope that you can provide professional assistance.
Thank you very much.

Mr. Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/06/29

Dr. Zheng Shuxing reply Internal Medicine

Hello Mr.
Wu, if it has been four years since the incident and all tests have come back normal, you should not be concerned about HIV infection.
The window period for HIV antibody testing does not exceed one year.
The sensation of warmth in your back is not a symptom of HIV.
Early symptoms of HIV infection can resemble those of the flu, including fever, fatigue, and body aches, which typically resolve within one to two weeks.
It is only after five to ten years, when the immune system is severely compromised, that one may experience unexplained fevers, weight loss, or cough.
Your discomfort does not align with HIV symptoms, and it may be beneficial to consult a mental health professional to alleviate your stress.
Zheng Shuxin.

Reply Date: 2004/06/29

More Info

Hello, thank you for sharing your experience and concerns. It sounds like you have been dealing with a significant amount of discomfort and anxiety related to your physical symptoms, which have persisted for four years. I appreciate your openness in discussing this matter, as it can be quite challenging to confront such issues.

From what you describe, it seems that your discomfort began after an incident during a trip to Thailand, which has led to ongoing worry about potential health consequences, particularly regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It's understandable that such an experience could lead to heightened anxiety and physical symptoms, especially if you have not had any intimate relationships since then. The mind-body connection is powerful, and psychological stress can manifest as physical symptoms, which may explain the persistent sensation of heat and discomfort in your back.

You mentioned that you have undergone various medical evaluations, including tests for STIs and a full health check-up, all of which returned normal results. This is a positive sign, as it suggests that there may not be a physical illness causing your symptoms. However, the ongoing discomfort and the psychological burden it has placed on you are valid concerns that deserve attention.

Given the context of your symptoms, it may be beneficial to explore the possibility of psychosomatic issues. Psychosomatic disorders occur when psychological factors contribute to physical symptoms. In your case, the anxiety and stress stemming from the incident could be manifesting as physical discomfort. It might be helpful to consider seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, who can help you work through these feelings and develop coping strategies.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one effective approach for addressing anxiety and stress-related symptoms. CBT can help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns that may be contributing to your discomfort. Additionally, mindfulness and relaxation techniques can be beneficial in managing anxiety and reducing physical symptoms.

It's also important to take care of your overall well-being. Engaging in regular physical activity, practicing good sleep hygiene, and maintaining a balanced diet can all contribute to improved mental and physical health. Finding healthy outlets for stress, such as hobbies or social activities, can also help alleviate some of the burdens you are experiencing.

Lastly, I encourage you to continue seeking medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen. While it is reassuring that your previous tests have come back normal, it is essential to advocate for your health and ensure that all potential causes are explored. A multidisciplinary approach involving both medical and psychological support may provide you with the relief you are seeking.

In conclusion, your experience is complex, and it is essential to address both the physical and psychological aspects of your discomfort. Seeking help from mental health professionals, exploring therapeutic options, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can all contribute to your overall well-being. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to help you navigate these challenges.

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