Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Causes Weightgain, Hairfall And Thick, Painful, Cracking Skin On Fingers?
Hi, I have been not feeling well for years but not any specific symptoms. After my son was born (now 14.5 yrs) I started gaining weight and have continued to gain, even when increasing exercise and watching food intake. My hair is thinning -- I was told it was stress because of a job change but it has now been three years and things are getting worse. For several years I have had what I would describe as calluses on my fingers--thickened skin that cracks and is painful and itchy at times. Until recently it was only on my right hand but now has spread to my left as well. I often have pain in the lower abdomen; it is increasing in severity but is generalized and random. Last year I went to the doctor hoping to get some answers. He ordered a few tests, including a basic thyroid test, and told me I am fine. But I m not fine. Do you have any suggestions on what I should do now? I am 52.
Wed, 2 Sep 2015
Hi there.
From the trends of the symptoms described, especially the gradual weight gain, thinning hair and thickening at the skin folds, it does sound like you have thyroid trouble. It is possible that some people experience all the effects of an underactive thyroid but their blood levels still show up as normal, albeit with the TSH level being in the upper limit. Anyway your tests results are over a year old and cannot be applied to the current situation.
The lower abdominal pain is worrisome though. You need to provide a little more information with regard to your condition:
1. Have you attained menopause? If so, when?
2. What is / was your menstrual cycle like? Any heavy bleeding / pain?
3. How are your bowel movements like?
4. Any bladder issues?
5. When was your last gynaecological review? Has any ultrasound been done?
6. Is your lower abdominal girth increasing?
6. Any significant personal or family medical history?
7. Are you on any current medication or supplements?
8. What is your nutrition (daily diet) like?
I recommend that you pay attention to the above questions and see a doctor very soon. I'd recommend a thorough hormonal assay, a proper gynae review and an ultrasound of the lower abdomen, visualizing the uterus, ovaries and bladder.
Thank you.
From the trends of the symptoms described, especially the gradual weight gain, thinning hair and thickening at the skin folds, it does sound like you have thyroid trouble. It is possible that some people experience all the effects of an underactive thyroid but their blood levels still show up as normal, albeit with the TSH level being in the upper limit. Anyway your tests results are over a year old and cannot be applied to the current situation.
The lower abdominal pain is worrisome though. You need to provide a little more information with regard to your condition:
1. Have you attained menopause? If so, when?
2. What is / was your menstrual cycle like? Any heavy bleeding / pain?
3. How are your bowel movements like?
4. Any bladder issues?
5. When was your last gynaecological review? Has any ultrasound been done?
6. Is your lower abdominal girth increasing?
6. Any significant personal or family medical history?
7. Are you on any current medication or supplements?
8. What is your nutrition (daily diet) like?
I recommend that you pay attention to the above questions and see a doctor very soon. I'd recommend a thorough hormonal assay, a proper gynae review and an ultrasound of the lower abdomen, visualizing the uterus, ovaries and bladder.
Thank you.
I find this answer helpful
1 Doctor agrees with this answer
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....