Unexplained Body Discomfort: Symptoms and Concerns

I feel very unwell all over?

Hello, I'm sorry to disturb you.
I've been experiencing ongoing health issues for the past few months.
My weight has dropped dramatically, losing 20 kilograms from October last year to April this year, without any changes in my diet or exercise.
I have persistent numbness in my hands and feet, which lasts for a long time.
My legs feel weak, and my heart rate has been consistently fast.
It was originally 145 beats per minute, but after taking Sotalol (a medication for arrhythmia and hypertension), it has decreased to around 122 beats per minute.
I have developed small red spots all over my body that don't resemble an allergic reaction or acne, and they are itchy.
I often feel chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and headaches.
I can frequently hear my heartbeat, and the vibrations are not limited to my chest; my abdomen also feels it.
Two months ago, I collapsed when I stood up to walk, and it was difficult to get back up.
I would stand and then immediately sit down again.
I was taken to the hospital, where my muscle index was measured at 970, but it returned to normal after a week.
I haven't been tested since then (I still experience weakness in my legs, but now it's mostly just occasional pain in my left calf).
Honestly, I'm very worried.
Could this possibly be cancer or some other illness? Currently, my hands are completely numb, not just a finger or two; both hands are affected, and my feet are slightly numb as well.
My left face also feels a bit numb.

A-Hsien, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/04/15

Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine

Weight loss and increased heart rate are most commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, which can be confirmed or ruled out through blood tests.

Reply Date: 2009/04/15

More Info

Your situation sounds quite distressing, and it's understandable to feel overwhelmed by the multitude of symptoms you're experiencing. The combination of weight loss, numbness in your limbs, rapid heartbeat, and other physical discomforts can certainly lead to significant anxiety and concern about your health.
Firstly, it's important to recognize that unexplained physical symptoms can often be linked to psychological factors, particularly anxiety and stress. The mind and body are closely connected, and emotional distress can manifest as physical symptoms. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as somatic symptom disorder, where psychological factors contribute to the perception of physical discomfort.
Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to approach this from a comprehensive perspective. Here are some considerations:
1. Medical Evaluation: Since you've already experienced significant weight loss and other concerning symptoms, it's crucial to continue seeking medical evaluations. A thorough examination by a healthcare professional, including blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly referrals to specialists, can help rule out serious conditions, including cancer or other systemic diseases.
2. Neurological Assessment: The numbness and weakness in your limbs, along with the rapid heartbeat and other symptoms, warrant a neurological evaluation. Conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, or other neurological disorders could potentially explain some of your symptoms.
3. Cardiovascular Health: Given your history of rapid heartbeat and chest discomfort, it would be wise to have a cardiologist evaluate your heart health. Arrhythmias or other heart conditions can cause symptoms like palpitations and chest tightness.

4. Psychological Factors: As mentioned earlier, anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms. It might be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional who can help you explore the psychological aspects of your health concerns. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in managing health anxiety and can help you develop coping strategies for dealing with your symptoms.

5. Lifestyle Factors: Consider evaluating your lifestyle, including diet, exercise, and sleep patterns. Stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can also be beneficial in reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.

6. Follow-Up: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare providers are essential. Keeping a symptom diary can help track your symptoms and any potential triggers, which can be valuable information for your doctors.

7. Support System: Engaging with a support system, whether through friends, family, or support groups, can provide emotional relief and help you feel less isolated in your experiences.

In summary, while your symptoms are concerning and warrant thorough investigation, it's essential to approach this situation holistically. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of your health, you can work towards finding relief and improving your overall quality of life. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and seeking help is a vital step towards understanding and managing your health concerns.

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