Which Medical Specialty Should I See for My Symptoms?

Which department should I make an appointment with?

I have recently had a poor appetite, and I find it hard to eat anything.
I also feel very fatigued and often want to sleep.
Sometimes I sleep for over ten hours and still feel tired.
Is there something wrong? Which department should I visit at the hospital for an examination? Thank you!

Aguang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/03/24

Dr. Cai Mengru reply Family Medicine

Dear Mr.
A-Guang,
Hello.
Regarding your concerns, it is possible that they are due to psychosomatic stress, or there may be issues with your internal organs, such as the liver.
If you find that you cannot identify any explainable psychosomatic stress and that you do not experience any improvement even during your time off, it may be advisable to seek assistance from a physician.
I recommend that you consult with a family medicine doctor first.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Tsai Meng-Ju
Attending Physician, Family Medicine Department
Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2009/03/24

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms that could be indicative of an underlying health issue. Your lack of appetite, excessive fatigue, and prolonged sleep duration are certainly worth investigating further. These symptoms can be associated with a variety of medical conditions, including but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, thyroid dysfunction, chronic fatigue syndrome, or even nutritional deficiencies.

Given the nature of your symptoms, the first step would be to consult a primary care physician (PCP). A PCP can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical examination and a review of your medical history. They may also order some laboratory tests, such as blood tests to check for thyroid function, complete blood count (CBC), and metabolic panels to assess your overall health and identify any potential deficiencies or abnormalities.

If your PCP suspects that your symptoms may be related to a mental health condition, they may refer you to a psychiatrist or a psychologist for further evaluation and treatment. Mental health specialists can provide therapy and medication management if necessary. On the other hand, if your symptoms are linked to a physical health issue, your PCP may refer you to a specialist, such as an endocrinologist for thyroid issues or a nutritionist for dietary concerns.

In addition to seeking medical advice, it’s important to consider lifestyle factors that could be contributing to your symptoms. For instance, poor sleep hygiene, lack of physical activity, and inadequate nutrition can all exacerbate feelings of fatigue and low appetite. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring you have a consistent sleep schedule can help improve your overall well-being.

Moreover, if you find that your symptoms are significantly impacting your daily life, it’s crucial to address them sooner rather than later. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking help is a positive step towards feeling better.
In summary, I recommend scheduling an appointment with a primary care physician to discuss your symptoms in detail. They will be able to guide you through the appropriate diagnostic process and refer you to the necessary specialists based on their findings. Remember, taking the first step to seek help is a significant move towards regaining your health and well-being.

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