Case Study: Fatigue and Pain: 34-Year-Old Female

Introduction

A 34 year-old female presented to CFNC with a chief complaint of extreme fatigue, global joint pain, and bloating. She has a previous diagnosis of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) since her adolescent years. She reported that her menstrual cycle length averaged 60 days since she was a teenager. 

Examination and Diagnosis

Patient was referred for lab work and stool testing. Results revealed insulin resistance, high ferritin levels, high inflammatory levels,  high total cholesterol, triglycerides and low density lipoprotein levels, high TPO and Thyroglobulin Antibodies. Stool test revealed bacterial dysbiosis and low stomach acid levels. Patient was then sent for an Antinuclear Antibody test that came back positive. Patient was diagnosed with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.

Treatment

The patient was initially treated with 20 hours hyperbaric oxygen therapy in conjunction with Bemer and Red Light and Near Infrared Therapy. In addition to these modalities, the patient was put on anti-inflammatory and blood sugar regulating supplements as well as a specific dietary modifications.

Patient underwent a second course of treatment completing 10 hours of hyperbaric oxygen therapy at a reduced rate and frequency. They continued on the same supplement regimen. Lab work was re-run 3-4 months after the initial visit. 

Results

After the initial course of treatment the patient was no longer experiencing bloating and saw a large reduction in joint pain. They reported they had lost over ten pounds.

After the second course of treatment they reported they experienced very little joint pain. They are no longer fatigued and able to exercise again. No report of bloating or gastric issues.

Their lab work revealed no insulin resistance, cholesterol markers were all within normal limits, inflammatory markers were no longer high. Antibodies were still present but no indication of thyroid dysfunction. She reports that her menstrual cycle length has been averaging 30-32 days since beginning treatment.

Conclusion

Functional neurological care, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and functional medicine is very beneficial for autoimmune disease and hormonal conditions. Every patient requires an individualized approach and targeted treatment to achieve optimal results.