
Weight Gain, Irregular Periods, Sore Ribs, Chest Tightness, Fatigue, Headache, Backache. Is This Pregnancy?

weight gain especially in the tummy--very bloated
irregular periods-one 15 days late
sore boobs
sore under right rib--feels like it is bruised or broken
tightness in chest and throat after eating
sore throat, violent coughing, congested for a month
unable to sleep because of coughing
crazy fatigue--been sleeping until 11 am most days
headaches
crying/ emotional for no reason
tingling in fingers
back pain
im a 41 yr old woman, tried pregnancy tests--all negative 5 times
what do you think? thanks
Thanks for writing in.
Some times when you speak up what you are feeling half of your problem is gone. Hope you are feeling much better and relaxed now.
There is no single disorder which can produce the symptoms that you have described.
As far as the cough and chest congestion is concerned, your history indicates that you may be suffering from a chest infection. You must visit a physician for physical evaluation & proper prescription. As, I think you will be needing antibiotics, cough syrups & may be pain killers for relief of your throat, chest & rib pain symptoms.
In order to help you better, I would request you to answer the following questions:
a. Are you trying to conceive?
b. As far as the weight gain is concerned, has your dietary intake and exercise pattern remained the same?
c. Are you stressed?
As of now, you should try to eat a healthy balanced diet, perform moderate exercise and try to be happy and relaxed. This may help improve most of your symptoms other than those related to chest infection.
If you continue to experience late periods, you must see a gynecologist. Certain investigations like hormones test & a pelvic ultrasound may be needed/
It is extremely unlikely that you are pregnant. The urine pregnancy test is extremely sensitive and specific. However, to be absolutely sure, you can try getting your blood tested for serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin levels (beta-hCG)
Awaiting your reply.
Wish you good health & best of luck. Regards.


You are welcome.
Pleased to know that your chest symptoms are over now and you have overcome the stress. It is really good that you are so active.
I don't think you are heading towards menopause as it is a bit early for you. You may get an idea by checking your Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels - blood test. Although we recommend this test if a women misses her period for at least 6 months.
I think you may test your thyroid status by doing thyroid function tests (serum TSH). It may have a role in your weight gain. I did not recommend this last time as you reported two opposite symptoms.
Sleepless nights & waking up late - These both are naturally related to each other i.e. if you can't sleep at night you will definitely wake up late.
Your sore rib may be related to your heavy coughing that lasted for one month. There can also be an element of Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) that could be causing the chest tightens and indigestion. These symptoms appear to be a sinister problem and something which can be treated. And I would suggest you to consult your physician. Your doctor can check your rib area & do an abdominal examination to exclude this pathology. He/she may also advise you an X-Ray of that area.
In addition you should also do a pelvic ultrasound scan to have a look at your ovaries, as ovarian disease may sometimes present this way.
Fatigue may be related to the problem you have suffered for a month. It will hopefully recover with time. If you eat a lot of fruits & balanced diet you don't need a vitamin supplement. Let me tell you one thing, if you take multivitamins without actually needing them, this may aggravate your weight gain and thus exacerbating your main concerns.
Overall, your symptoms are sinister and can be managed easily. Visit your doctor as planned. I will be there if you have any more questions.
Hope you get well soon.
Regards


Thanks for writing back.
I am really happy to know your results and that you are satisfied.
I suggest you should book an appointment with a consultant gynecologist as early as possible to optimize your chances of a healthy outcome.
You may contact me again if you wish to.
Best of luck. Take care.

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