Why Am I Always Tired and Sick? Next Steps in Atlanta, GA
Why Am I Always Tired and Sick? Next Steps in Atlanta, GA
Feeling constantly exhausted, dealing with night sweats, unexpected weight loss, sore throat, and swollen glands can be really worrying—especially when colds keep coming back and nothing seems to help. If you’ve been searching “why am I always tired and sick,” you’re not alone, and your concerns are valid. These symptoms, when they appear together, may indicate an underlying health issue that deserves professional attention.
This post is here to guide you through understanding what to do next. We’ll help you know which healthcare providers can best address your symptoms and give you an idea of the typical costs for initial visits and tests in the Atlanta, GA area. Knowing this information can empower you to take the right step toward clearer answers and better health.
Who to See for Your Symptoms in Atlanta, GA
Based on the symptoms you’re describing, there are a few types of healthcare providers who could be a good place to start:
- Family Practice Doctor: A generalist who diagnoses and treats a wide range of common illnesses and conditions. They are often the first point of contact and can order tests to help determine the cause of your symptoms.
- Internal Medicine Doctor: Similar to family practice but focused on adults. They specialize in diagnosing complex or chronic illnesses and can help evaluate your symptoms thoroughly.
- Hematology-Oncology Specialist: This type of doctor focuses on blood-related conditions and cancers. They may be involved if initial tests suggest issues like anemia or other blood disorders.
- Infectious Disease Specialist: Experts in identifying and treating infections. If your frequent sickness and symptoms suggest a persistent or unusual infection, they could provide specialized care.
What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs
Here is an overview of common procedures these providers may perform during your initial visits, along with estimated self-pay costs in Atlanta, GA.
Visit with a Family Practice Doctor
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Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: This appointment lets your doctor examine your symptoms, take a medical history, and discuss your concerns in detail. It’s your first step to finding out what might be causing your tiredness and frequent illness.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $196.48 (typically ranges from $147.36 to $245.60)
This estimate is based on 348 providers in the Atlanta area. -
Procedure: Insertion of needle into vein for collection of blood sample (CPT Code: 36415)
Purpose: To collect blood for testing, which helps identify infections, anemia, thyroid problems, and other conditions related to your symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $13.06 (typically ranges from $9.79 to $16.32)
This estimate is based on 122 providers in the Atlanta area. -
Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CBC) (CPT Code: 85025)
Purpose: A simple blood test that measures your red and white blood cells and platelets. It helps detect infections, anemia, and other blood issues.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $15.77 (typically ranges from $9.05 to $22.49)
This estimate is based on 27 providers in the Atlanta area. -
Procedure: Blood test for thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (CPT Code: 84443)
Purpose: This test checks your thyroid function, which can affect your energy levels and overall health. It’s commonly done if you feel unusually tired.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $29.89 (typically ranges from $19.70 to $40.08)
This estimate is based on 14 providers in the Atlanta area. -
Procedure: Strep test (CPT Code: 87880)
Purpose: Detects group A streptococcus bacteria that can cause throat infections. Useful if you have a sore throat and swollen glands.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $25.68 (typically ranges from $19.26 to $32.10)
This estimate is based on 31 providers in the Atlanta area.
Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor
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Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: A detailed review and examination of your health concerns to help establish a diagnosis and plan.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $195.58 (typically ranges from $146.69 to $244.48)
This estimate is based on 444 providers in Atlanta. -
Procedure: Insertion of needle into vein for blood collection (CPT Code: 36415)
Purpose: To collect blood samples for testing to identify underlying causes.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $13.26 (typically ranges from $9.95 to $16.58)
This estimate is based on 162 providers. -
Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
Purpose: Detects infections and anemia that could explain your symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $16.27 (typically ranges from $9.12 to $23.42)
This estimate is based on 35 providers. -
Procedure: Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test (CPT Code: 84443)
Purpose: Evaluates thyroid dysfunction, which affects energy and metabolism.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $27.50 (typically ranges from $19.75 to $35.25)
This estimate is based on 28 providers. -
Procedure: Urinalysis, manual test (CPT Code: 81002)
Purpose: Checks your urine for signs of infection or other medical issues.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $7.41 (typically ranges from $4.09 to $10.73)
This estimate is based on 82 providers.
Visit with a Hematology-Oncology Specialist
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Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: Specialized consultation focused on blood disorders or cancer diagnosis if earlier tests indicate the need.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $160.66 (typically ranges from $120.48 to $200.83)
This estimate is based on 71 providers. -
Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
Purpose: Detailed blood analysis to monitor or diagnose blood diseases.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $13.10 (typically ranges from $9.11 to $17.10)
This estimate is based on 8 providers. -
Procedure: Blood collection (CPT Code: 36415)
Purpose: Required for blood testing and diagnosis.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $18.29 (typically ranges from $9.82 to $26.76)
This estimate is based on 5 providers. -
Procedure: Bone marrow biopsy (CPT Code: 38222)
Purpose: A more invasive test to diagnose blood disorders or cancers when necessary.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $792.69 (typically ranges from $205.38 to $1380.00)
This estimate is based on 5 providers. -
Procedure: Urinalysis, manual (CPT Code: 81002)
Purpose: Test urine to check for infection or other abnormalities.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $6.53 (typically ranges from $4.07 to $9.00)
This estimate is based on 6 providers.
Visit with an Infectious Disease Specialist
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Procedure: Established patient outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: Expert evaluation of persistent or unusual infections that could cause recurring illness and fatigue.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $185.63 (typically ranges from $139.22 to $232.04)
This estimate is based on 52 providers. -
Procedure: Complete blood cell count (CPT Code: 85025)
Purpose: Helps detect infections and immune responses.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $13.57 (typically ranges from $9.13 to $18.00)
This estimate is based on 4 providers. -
Procedure: HIV viral load test (CPT Code: 87536)
Purpose: Measures amount of HIV virus in the blood, if suspected.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $133.44 (typically ranges from $100.08 to $166.80)
This estimate is based on 3 providers. -
Procedure: Chlamydia test (CPT Code: 87491)
Purpose: Detects chlamydia infection, which could cause systemic symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $59.63 (typically ranges from $41.27 to $78.00)
This estimate is based on 1 provider. -
Procedure: Syphilis test (CPT Code: 86592)
Purpose: Tests for syphilis infection, another potential cause of systemic illness.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $8.51 (typically ranges from $5.02 to $12.00)
This estimate is based on 1 provider.
Your Recommended Next Steps
It’s important to take action to address the symptoms you’re experiencing:
- Schedule an Appointment: Contact a Family Practice or Internal Medicine doctor first as they can provide a thorough evaluation and order appropriate tests. If needed, they will refer you to specialists like Hematology-Oncology or Infectious Disease.
- Prepare for Your Visit: Write down all your symptoms, how long you’ve had them, and any questions you want to ask. This helps your doctor understand your condition better.
- Discuss Costs: When booking your appointment, ask the provider’s office to confirm costs. The amounts shown here are estimates based on local providers in Atlanta but may vary.
- Stay Positive and Proactive: Seeking professional advice is a vital step in protecting your health and gaining peace of mind.
Need Help Navigating Your Options?
Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.
Disclaimer: This information is intended to support and complement professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions regarding your health or medical conditions.