Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Health Issues

Q: Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Help for Your Health Issues

Hello： This type of acute situation can be categorized into two scenarios. <br>First： Acute hepatitis - liver function abnormalities may be caused by medications, food, or other reasons, and typically last for more than two weeks. <br>If not treated promptly, it could worsen. <br

Some symptoms

A few days ago, I suddenly lost my appetite, experienced headaches, and sometimes felt a bit nauseous.
I have been very fatigued, and my abdomen feels somewhat uncomfortable, though it's hard to describe as pain.
I've been having bowel movements 1 to 2 times a day, which is more frequent than usual.
This has persisted for two days, and I've lost 1.5 kilograms in weight.
Later, I started to feel some body aches and weakness.
I tested negative for HIV and visited an internal medicine doctor, who prescribed me medication for my stomach and pain relief, but there hasn't been any improvement.
Can you tell me what disease this might be? Which specialist should I see?

polo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/05/23

Dr. Cai Jueren reply Family Medicine

Hello: This type of acute situation can be categorized into two scenarios.
First: Acute hepatitis - liver function abnormalities may be caused by medications, food, or other reasons, and typically last for more than two weeks.
If not treated promptly, it could worsen.
Second: Acute gastritis, gastric cancer, or gastric ulcers.
It is recommended that you visit a gastroenterology department at a major hospital as soon as possible.
It may not be as serious as you imagine; it could simply be caused by fatigue.
Thank you for your correspondence, and I hope the above information addresses your concerns.
Dr.
Tsai Jue-ren, Hualien Hospital.

Reply Date: 2007/05/23

More Info

When faced with sudden and concerning physical symptoms, it can be quite distressing and confusing. Your experience of loss of appetite, headaches, nausea, fatigue, abdominal discomfort, changes in bowel habits, and weight loss over a short period of time warrants careful consideration. While I cannot diagnose your condition, I can provide some guidance on how to approach your situation and when to seek further medical help.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that many physical symptoms can be linked to a variety of causes, including stress, anxiety, infections, gastrointestinal issues, or even more serious conditions. Given that you have already undergone testing for HIV and consulted with an internist who prescribed medication for your gastrointestinal symptoms, it’s crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If the medications you were prescribed do not lead to improvement, or if your symptoms worsen, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation.

In your case, the combination of symptoms you described could suggest a few possibilities:
1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even food intolerances could cause nausea, abdominal discomfort, and changes in appetite. If the medications prescribed do not alleviate your symptoms, a gastroenterologist may be the appropriate specialist to consult.

2. Infections: Viral or bacterial infections can lead to systemic symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and gastrointestinal disturbances. If you have any additional symptoms such as fever, chills, or unusual fatigue, it may be worth considering further testing for infections.

3. Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as loss of appetite, fatigue, and gastrointestinal discomfort. If you feel that your symptoms may be related to stress or anxiety, consulting a mental health professional could be beneficial. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques can help manage anxiety and its physical manifestations.

4. Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as thyroid disorders, anemia, or metabolic issues could also present with similar symptoms. If your symptoms persist or if you develop new symptoms, it may be necessary to undergo further testing to rule out these conditions.

Given your current situation, here are some steps you can take:
- Keep a Symptom Diary: Document your symptoms, including their frequency, intensity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the next steps.

- Follow Up with Your Doctor: If your symptoms do not improve with the current treatment, or if they worsen, return to your doctor for a follow-up. Be clear about your ongoing concerns and the lack of improvement.

- Consider a Specialist: If gastrointestinal symptoms persist, consider seeing a gastroenterologist. If you suspect that anxiety or stress is contributing to your symptoms, a mental health professional may provide the support you need.

- Stay Informed but Cautious: While it’s natural to seek information about your symptoms online, be cautious about self-diagnosing. The internet can often amplify anxiety and lead to unnecessary worry. Focus on discussing your symptoms with healthcare professionals who can provide accurate assessments.

In conclusion, while it’s understandable to feel anxious about your health, especially when experiencing new and concerning symptoms, it’s essential to approach the situation methodically. Seek further medical advice if your symptoms persist, and don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself in the healthcare system. Your health is paramount, and getting the right support is crucial for your well-being.

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