Which Medical Specialty Should I Consult for My Aunt's Symptoms? - Internal Medicine

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I'm not sure which department to visit?


Hello Doctor: I have a question to ask you.
My aunt suffers from a condition where her cheeks feel hot and reddened every winter.
She needs to apply a damp cotton pad to her cheeks to cool them down.
Additionally, as her cheeks feel hotter, she experiences dizziness.
She has already consulted internal medicine, dermatology, and metabolic medicine specialists, but they all said there is no issue.
I would like to know if you have encountered a similar case and which specialty she should consult.
Thank you!

vincent, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/12/28

Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine


In response to Vincen: The symptoms you described are suggestive of postmenopausal syndrome, so it is recommended to consult a gynecologist for an examination.
Hormone replacement therapy should be provided if necessary, and it is also important to monitor for hypertension.

Reply Date: 2001/12/28

More Info


Based on the symptoms you've described for your aunt, it sounds like she may be experiencing a condition that could be related to several potential underlying issues. The symptoms of facial flushing, a burning sensation, and dizziness, particularly in response to colder weather, can be indicative of a few different medical conditions.
Given that she has already consulted with internal medicine, dermatology, and metabolic disorders without a clear diagnosis, it may be beneficial to consider a few other specialties that could provide further insight into her symptoms.
1. Neurology: Since your aunt experiences dizziness alongside her facial symptoms, consulting a neurologist could be worthwhile. Neurological conditions can sometimes manifest with unusual sensory symptoms, including facial flushing and dizziness. A neurologist can evaluate for conditions such as migraines, which can sometimes cause facial flushing and dizziness, or other neurological disorders that may not have been considered yet.

2. Allergy and Immunology: Another possibility is that your aunt may be experiencing an allergic reaction or a sensitivity to environmental factors, particularly if her symptoms are exacerbated in winter. An allergist can conduct tests to determine if there are any allergens or sensitivities contributing to her symptoms.

3. Endocrinology: Hormonal imbalances can also lead to symptoms like facial flushing and dizziness. An endocrinologist can evaluate her hormone levels and assess for conditions such as hyperthyroidism or other endocrine disorders that might be causing her symptoms.

4. Rheumatology: If there is any suspicion of an autoimmune condition, a rheumatologist could be consulted. Conditions such as lupus or Sjögren's syndrome can sometimes present with facial flushing and other systemic symptoms.

5. Otolaryngology (ENT): Since dizziness can also be related to issues with the inner ear, consulting an ear, nose, and throat specialist may help rule out any vestibular disorders that could be causing her symptoms.

In addition to these specialties, it may also be beneficial for your aunt to keep a detailed diary of her symptoms, noting when they occur, their duration, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for any specialist she consults, as it may help in diagnosing her condition.

Lastly, if her symptoms are significantly impacting her quality of life, it may be worth seeking a second opinion from a different physician in one of the aforementioned specialties. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can lead to new insights and potential treatment options.

In conclusion, while it can be frustrating to navigate through various specialties without a clear diagnosis, considering a broader range of specialists, particularly those focused on neurology, allergies, endocrinology, rheumatology, or ENT, may help in identifying the underlying cause of your aunt's symptoms.

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