Unexpected weight loss, chronic fatigue, orthostatic hypotention

[KJ71]

For the past six months I have lost 20 pounds (from 175-ideal to 155).  I've had chronic fatigue, I never feel well rested after plenty of sleep, my appetite has been very low, I get very dizzy and light headed when I stand up often and need to catch my breath doing routine tasks.  I also vomit 1-2x/month for now apparent reason-always at night. My first round of blood work showed nothing, second round showed everything fine (HIV neg, HEP A,B,C negative) but a very slightly low TSH.  Next round of bloodwork includes deeper look at thyroid, and bone marrow but not back yet.  My Dr. cannot find bloodwork which tells him what kind of specialist to send me to.  Only other thing to notes is that this all began immediately after I got back from India.  I only drank bottled water (from Europe) and ate at 5 star hotels.  Stool samples negative for parasites.  Also no fever or chills or diarhhea.  Need to figure this out ASAP.  

[bweb]

Wow, I had similar problems,like those, too.

First off, had plenty of tests, and no one could really find anything out, like you.

I still think I had/have a virus which has affected the autonomic system...resulting in hypotension, weakness, feeling "out of sorts", losing weight.

You also might want to check out your sinuses...they can make you fatigued.

Definitely get the best blood tests you can to rule out the really bad stuff...oh, if you don't have high blood pressure, some people are helped by adding salt to their diets for the blood pressure thing....

Do you have any pains, abdominal, head?  If so, have them addressed, too.  May need x-rays, or CT/MRI's if you do.

Just try to watch your diet, make sure you are hydrated, and best of luck...keep us informed.

[PlateletGal]

Any weakness ?

[PlateletGal]

Another question....does your heart rate when you stand up ? (postural orthostatic tachcarydia)

[KJ71]

Yes weakness but no pain or high b/p.  Dr. did say as you that I am extremely dehydrated and dr and eat things that have a lot of salt.  Did anything help you?  How long did it last?  

[PlateletGal]

Since you have been feeling this way for over 6 months, you may want to take this quiz:

http://www.cfids.org/about-cfids/do-i-have-cfids.asp

I also have CFIDS and have POTS (postural orthostatic intolerance) that often goes along with CFIDS.

I would consider asking your physician to do some blood work on you. They should check your cortisol level and rule out adrenal insufficiency (common with CFS) and Addison's disease:

http://www.medhelp.org/www/nadf3.htm

Weakness, fatigue, nausea and weight loss are all symptoms of adrenal insufficiency.

[PlateletGal]

POTS = postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome

[bweb]

Hmmm,

Dehydrated...do you exercise a lot.

Do you drink caffeinated drinks like coffee a lot.

Are you under stress..

You might want to consider 2 or so gatorades a day to get started.

Maybe that virus or whatever has affected you like a diuretic?

[KJ71]

I wanted to let you both know that in the last couple weeks after taking in a lot of salt and a lot of gatorade I've been feeling entirely normal again.  Only thing missing is weight gain.  Hopefully that will follow shortly.  I did however look up adrenal insufficiency on your recommendation and I meet 11 of the criteria for Addison's disease.  Will run it by my doctor.  Soundsl ike I may very well have that.  I took the quiz for CIFD and don't have that or just Chronic fatigue, nor do I seem to have fibromyalgia.  I will definitely have my doctor check on my adrenal gland.  Thanks to both.

[PlateletGal]

You are very welcome ! And just to let you know, licorice root (the liquid form is better), helps adrenal insufficiency problems. It is a natural remedy... you may want to ask your physician about and/or google it for more information. I had an Immunologist prescribe it for me because the alternative was cortisone (steriods).

Best of luck to you !

[bweb]

Best of luck....keep hydrating, sounds like your body is beginning to respond and all healing occurs from within.