Body Heat: When to Seek Gastroenterology Care - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The body is prone to overheating?

Hello, doctor.
My body tends to feel warm easily, especially between 9:00 PM and midnight.
I often need to find something to press against my palms and soles to cool down.
I'm unsure which specialty I should consult for this condition.
During my middle and high school years, I stayed up late frequently, but I have improved my lifestyle now.
However, I am still concerned about my health.

1.
I occasionally experience palpitations, but they are infrequent, about 1 to 3 times every six months.
Should I seek medical attention for this? (There is no fever or other symptoms.)
2.
My diet tends to be high in salt and sugar.
Could this increase the burden on my spleen or other parts of my body, potentially causing my body to feel warm?
3.
If I want to undergo tests for liver, kidney, spleen, stomach, or cancer, what specific items or tests should I pay attention to? I am particularly concerned about my health since my father passed away from renal malignancy.
Thank you.

CZS, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/04/21

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, 1.
Your fever seems to be related to your constitution; do you have an issue with being overweight? 2.
Consumption of salty and sweet foods is unrelated to the spleen and does not correlate with fever.
3.
You may consider paying for a comprehensive health check-up, which will provide a preliminary overall understanding of your health status.
Wishing you good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Qifeng, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2009/04/21

More Info

When experiencing persistent body heat, especially during specific times of the day, it is essential to consider various potential underlying causes. Your symptoms, including the sensation of heat in your palms and soles, could be indicative of several conditions, particularly those related to the gastrointestinal system, endocrine system, or even anxiety-related issues.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand that the sensation of increased body heat can be linked to several factors, including hormonal fluctuations, metabolic changes, or even digestive issues. Given your history of gastrointestinal discomfort and the fact that you have experienced symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating, it may be beneficial to consult a gastroenterologist. They can evaluate whether your symptoms are related to conditions such as gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or other digestive disorders that could lead to systemic symptoms like heat.

Regarding your concern about heart palpitations, while infrequent occurrences (1-3 times every six months) may not seem alarming, it is still advisable to discuss this with a healthcare provider. Palpitations can sometimes be benign, but they can also indicate underlying issues, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as dizziness or shortness of breath. A thorough evaluation, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) and possibly a Holter monitor, may be warranted to rule out any cardiac concerns.

Your dietary habits, particularly a high intake of salty and sweet foods, can indeed impact your overall health. Excessive salt can lead to fluid retention and increased blood pressure, while high sugar intake can contribute to metabolic issues. Both factors can place additional stress on your organs, including the kidneys and liver, potentially leading to symptoms like increased body heat. It may be beneficial to adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing processed foods high in sugar and salt.

If you are considering screening for liver, kidney, or gastrointestinal cancers, it is essential to discuss your family history and personal risk factors with your healthcare provider. Given your father's history of renal malignancy, your provider may recommend specific tests such as blood tests (liver function tests, kidney function tests), imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan), or even endoscopic evaluations depending on your symptoms and risk factors.

In summary, your symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation by a gastroenterologist to explore potential gastrointestinal issues, as well as a discussion with your primary care physician regarding your heart palpitations and dietary habits. Addressing these concerns holistically can help alleviate your symptoms and provide peace of mind regarding your health. Regular follow-ups and screenings, especially considering your family history, are crucial in maintaining your health and catching any potential issues early.

Similar Q&A

Chronic Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello, I have been experiencing diarrhea for over a month, with more than five episodes daily, along with frequent abdominal pain. Initially, I thought I could endure it, but now the abdominal pain is so severe that it makes me break out in cold sweats. I have also started to fee...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
First, self-screen for a confirmed diagnosis, then schedule an appointment with the gastroenterology clinic.

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues vs. Heat Exhaustion: A Patient's Journey

From June 6 to June 8, I experienced diarrhea, but it wasn't severe. By June 9, the diarrhea had stopped, but I continued to feel discomfort in my stomach, had a poor appetite, and felt nauseous. On the evening of June 10, I went to a clinic where the doctor diagnosed me wit...

Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
Based on your description, it seems to primarily be a gastrointestinal issue; heatstroke should be considered only if you have been in an excessively hot environment for an extended period, as it is generally not that easy to occur. I would like to excerpt from my previous articl...

Understanding Bloating and Diarrhea: When to Seek Gastroenterology Help

Dr. Chen: I've been feeling bloated and uncomfortable in my stomach for the past few days. I don't have much of an appetite, and I've been experiencing diarrhea. Every time I eat something, I feel the urge to use the bathroom, and my stools are watery. I'm not...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Dear Mr. Xiao Wei: It appears to be abnormal gastrointestinal motility (dyspepsia). Please reduce your intake of fatty and dairy foods, and consider taking gastrointestinal medications to help regulate function. If there is no improvement or if you notice blood in your stool, f...

Understanding Abdominal and Lower Back Warmth: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, doctor. For the past two to three months, I have occasionally felt a warmth in my lower abdomen and sometimes in my lower back (near the coccyx), but my skin does not feel hot. Recently, I have also experienced weakness and soreness in my thighs. I'm not sure which sp...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Miss Dayu: 1. The causes of lower abdominal pain or discomfort in women include gynecological, urological, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, vascular, and metabolic disorders. A detailed medical history and physical examination are usually required to identify potential di...