What Causes Rapid Weight Gain, Fatigue, Depression And Arm Pain?

Posted on Sun, 5 Jul 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 5 Jul 2015 Answered on

Thu, 30 Jul 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am female, 55 years old and experiencing rapid weight gain (40 lbs. in last 3 months), fatigue, depression, arm pain centering around elbow (aching pain as well as painful to touch), trouble picking up briefcase with right arm, joint pain especially in fingers, heel pain, ear pain, on and off sore throat. I was diagnosed as having MS about 10 years ago, not on any medications. Short story is I feel like a bus hit me! Every day something aches. Feels different than the normal issues related to MS such as balance, vision problems etc.

Answered by Dr. Ajish TP (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Please get yourselves evaluated

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Welcome to HCM. I have gone through the question and understand your concerns.

The symptoms you mentioned are not specific for any particular disease. You should consult a physician and get evaluated.

The increased tiredness, weight gain and generalised aches can be seen in conditions like hypothyroidism, diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, uraemia, Rheumatoid arthritis etc.

The usual tests that we do after a thorough clinical examination are

1. Thyroid function tests
2. Plasma glucose and HbA1c
3. Lipid profile
4. Electrolytes
5. Liver and kidney function tests
6. Complete blood count with ESR
7. Serum cortisol
8. Vitamin D and B12
9. RA factor and ANA profile

Hope I have answered your questions. If you have any further queries I will be happy to help you

Regards,

Dr Ajish TP [MD,DM]
Consultant Endocrinologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D