Do I Need Medical Attention? BMI, Pain, and Irregular Cycles

Do I need to seek medical attention?

Hello Doctor,
I have a few questions I would like to ask: I am currently 30 years old, 158 cm tall, and weigh between 62 to 65 kg, giving me a BMI of 34.
Over six months ago, I started a raw food diet, cooking with minimal oil, salt, and meat.
I go to the gym twice a week, but so far, I have not seen any significant weight loss, and my BMI has not shown any downward trend.
Should I seek medical attention?
Additionally, since I started using the treadmill, I have been experiencing sharp pain in the soles of my feet upon waking or after sitting for a long time.
It takes some time walking for the pain to gradually subside.
I have switched to other forms of exercise; could you advise what might be causing this issue?
In the past, I would visit the doctor for minor ailments and take medication, but in recent years, due to my mother's advice, I have stopped treating medication as a supplement.
However, since the beginning of this year, my menstrual cycle has become irregular—sometimes it doesn’t come at all, and other times it lasts for an extended period, with varying flow.
I have been seeing a gynecologist for seven months now; is this normal? Should I continue with this?
Through a friend's introduction, I learned about nutritional immunology.
They suggested that my various symptoms (edema, lower back pain, insomnia, persistent thirst despite drinking plenty of water, numbness or cramps in my legs, headaches, or dizziness) may be related to an autoimmune disease.
This led me to start a raw food diet, and they encouraged me to stick with it, claiming my health would improve.
Is this true? What should I do?
Thank you very much for your help!
Best regards,
Xiao Zhu
June 11, 2006

Xiao Zhu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/06/11

Dr. Chen Baoli reply Internal Medicine

Dear Xiao Zhu,
Regarding your question, I suggest you first consult an endocrinologist to check for any metabolic issues, such as hypothyroidism.
As for the currently popular raw food diet, the medical community generally holds a skeptical view on whether it is suitable for everyone, so I cannot provide you with a definitive answer.
However, if you suspect you have an autoimmune disease, I recommend seeking assistance from a specialist at a major hospital.
Additionally, if you aim to lose weight, it is important to have sufficient exercise (when using a treadmill, focus on appropriate footwear, the elasticity of the running belt for shock absorption, and maintaining correct posture to avoid injury to your knees or back), proper dietary control (not just limiting food quantity, but also paying attention to the types of food), adequate sleep, and a positive mindset.
Many times, psychological factors can have a greater impact than external medications or foods.
I wonder if you agree?
Best wishes!

Reply Date: 2006/06/11

More Info

Based on your concerns, it seems you are experiencing multiple health issues that warrant a thorough evaluation. Let's break down your situation into several key areas: your BMI and weight management, foot pain, irregular menstrual cycles, and the potential for autoimmune diseases.

1. BMI and Weight Management
Your Body Mass Index (BMI) of 34 categorizes you as obese, which can increase your risk for various health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Despite your efforts to adopt a semi-raw diet and exercise twice a week, it appears that you have not seen significant weight loss. This could be due to several factors, including metabolic rate, dietary composition, and exercise intensity. It may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian who can help tailor a weight loss plan that suits your individual needs. They can also evaluate if there are any underlying metabolic issues, such as hypothyroidism, that could be affecting your weight loss efforts.

2. Foot Pain
The pain you experience in your feet, particularly after sitting for long periods or upon waking, could be indicative of several conditions, such as plantar fasciitis or other musculoskeletal issues. Plantar fasciitis is common among individuals who engage in activities like running, especially if proper footwear is not used. It is characterized by pain in the heel and bottom of the foot, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. It would be wise to consult a podiatrist who can assess your foot mechanics and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include physical therapy, orthotics, or changes in your exercise routine.

3. Irregular Menstrual Cycles
Irregular menstrual cycles can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight changes, and underlying health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Since you have been experiencing these irregularities for several months, it is advisable to continue consulting with a gynecologist. They can perform necessary tests to determine if there are any hormonal imbalances or other issues that need to be addressed. It is important to monitor your menstrual health, as it can provide insights into your overall well-being.

4. Potential Autoimmune Disease
Your friends' suggestion that your symptoms may relate to an autoimmune disease is a serious consideration. Symptoms like water retention, back pain, insomnia, and fatigue can indeed be associated with autoimmune conditions. However, diagnosing such diseases typically requires specific blood tests and evaluations by a rheumatologist. If you suspect an autoimmune issue, it is crucial to seek a specialist who can conduct the appropriate tests and provide a definitive diagnosis.

Conclusion
In summary, given your BMI, persistent foot pain, irregular menstrual cycles, and the potential for autoimmune issues, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A multidisciplinary approach involving a primary care physician, a dietitian, a podiatrist, and a gynecologist will provide a comprehensive evaluation of your health concerns. They can work together to create a holistic plan that addresses your weight management, foot health, menstrual irregularities, and any potential autoimmune conditions. Remember, early intervention is key to managing health issues effectively, so do not hesitate to seek the help you need.

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