Why Do I Feel Bloated and Tired? Your Next Steps in Chicago, IL

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Why Do I Feel Bloated and Tired? Your Next Steps in Chicago, IL

Feeling bloated and generally run down can be frustrating and worrying. You might wonder if it’s just your diet, your sleep habits, or maybe something more serious. It’s completely normal to want answers and reassurance. If you’re searching for why you feel this way, you’re taking a great first step toward understanding your health.

This post will guide you through the possible healthcare providers who can help, what initial visits and tests might involve, and what those might cost in Chicago. By knowing what to expect, you can feel more confident about seeking the right care.

Who to See for Your Symptoms in Chicago, IL

Based on the symptoms of bloating and fatigue, there are several types of healthcare professionals who might be a good first step for you:

  • Registered Dietitian or Nutrition Professional: These experts focus on nutrition and diet. They can help identify if your eating habits might be contributing to bloating or low energy and work with you on a tailored plan.

  • Family Practice Doctor: A Family Practice doctor is a generalist who can evaluate a broad range of health issues. They’re often the first doctor to visit for unexplained symptoms. They can order tests, diagnose conditions, and guide you through treatment options.

  • Internal Medicine Doctor: An Internal Medicine physician specializes in adult health and complex medical conditions. They can thoroughly investigate symptoms like yours and manage care that may require more detailed testing or specialist referrals.

What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs

Here’s a breakdown of typical procedures, what they mean, why they’re important, and estimated self-pay costs that you can expect in the Chicago area.

Visit with a Registered Dietitian or Nutrition Professional

  • Procedure: Therapy procedure for nutrition management, each 15 minutes (CPT Code: 97802)
    Purpose: This visit focuses on assessing and managing your nutrition, which could directly impact bloating and energy levels. The dietitian will help create or adjust your eating plan to improve symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $50.44 (typically ranges from $37.34 to $63.53)
    This estimate is based on 28 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: Therapy procedure reassessment for nutrition management, each 15 minutes (CPT Code: 97803)
    Purpose: A follow-up session to check how your nutrition plan is working and make changes if needed.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $43.97 (typically ranges from $32.98 to $54.96)
    This estimate is based on 29 providers in the Chicago area.

Visit with a Family Practice Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30–39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A thorough check-up focused on your current symptoms, medical history, and an initial physical exam. This lets the doctor evaluate potential causes of your bloating and fatigue.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $202.91 (typically ranges from $152.18 to $253.64)
    This estimate is based on 854 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: Blood test, comprehensive group of blood chemicals (CPT Code: 80053)
    Purpose: This blood test checks multiple chemical levels in your blood to uncover underlying issues like infections, organ function, and nutrient deficiencies.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $30.57 (typically ranges from $12.38 to $48.76)
    This estimate is based on 21 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: Automated urinalysis test (CPT Code: 81003)
    Purpose: Analyzes your urine to check for infections, kidney function, and other conditions that may cause symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $9.19 (typically ranges from $2.63 to $15.74)
    This estimate is based on 79 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: Blood test, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (CPT Code: 84443)
    Purpose: This test looks at thyroid function, which often affects energy levels and digestion.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $45.97 (typically ranges from $19.74 to $72.19)
    This estimate is based on 17 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: Hemoglobin A1c level (CPT Code: 83036)
    Purpose: Measures your average blood sugar levels over several months to screen for diabetes or prediabetes, which can cause fatigue and other symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $26.67 (typically ranges from $11.36 to $41.98)
    This estimate is based on 159 providers in the Chicago area.

Visit with an Internal Medicine Doctor

  • Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30–39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
    Purpose: A comprehensive visit for adults to evaluate complex or ongoing health concerns like your bloating and tiredness.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $199.68 (typically ranges from $149.76 to $249.60)
    This estimate is based on 1099 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: Automated urinalysis test (CPT Code: 81003)
    Purpose: Urine analysis to help rule out causes related to your kidneys or urinary tract.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $9.77 (typically ranges from $2.64 to $16.90)
    This estimate is based on 63 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: Blood test, comprehensive group of blood chemicals (CPT Code: 80053)
    Purpose: A broad blood test to check for common issues like liver, kidney function, and electrolyte balance, which can contribute to your symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $29.76 (typically ranges from $12.37 to $47.15)
    This estimate is based on 40 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: Hemoglobin A1c level (CPT Code: 83036)
    Purpose: Screen for diabetes or prediabetes as a potential cause of fatigue.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $28.58 (typically ranges from $11.34 to $45.82)
    This estimate is based on 231 providers in the Chicago area.

  • Procedure: Blood test, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) (CPT Code: 84443)
    Purpose: Tests your thyroid gland’s activity to see if it’s causing your symptoms.
    Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $43.46 (typically ranges from $19.73 to $67.18)
    This estimate is based on 31 providers in the Chicago area.

How to Interpret the Cost Estimates

The American healthcare pricing system can feel a bit like haggling in a market where prices vary widely. The “cost range” shown reflects this reality:

  • The maximum cost is typically slightly below what providers charge as their “billed charges” — think of this as the sticker price they hope to get.
  • The minimum cost is often just above the “Medicare allowed amount,” which is what Medicare, the government insurance, negotiates to pay and what providers accept for patients on Medicare. At this price point, providers may only break even or might even lose some money.

Your actual cost will depend on the provider you choose, your payment method, and if discounts or negotiations are available.

Know Your Rights

Under federal law, you have the right to request a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) if you pay out-of-pocket or are uninsured. This means:

  • If you don’t use insurance, your provider must give you an estimate of expected charges if you ask or schedule services at least 3 business days ahead.
  • This estimate helps you avoid surprises by understanding likely costs upfront.

Many providers also offer self-pay discounts if you ask. When you call, consider asking:

“What is the cash price if I pay upfront?”

Additionally, you can request a detailed, itemized bill and dispute any charges that seem incorrect, duplicated, or unreasonable. Providers should provide CPT codes and billing details if you ask. Many states have laws protecting patients from unfair billing, especially if you don’t have insurance.

Taking care of your health starts with a simple step: seeing a qualified healthcare professional.

  • Schedule an Appointment: Call a Family Practice doctor, Internal Medicine doctor, or Registered Dietitian in Chicago to discuss your symptoms.
  • Prepare for Your Visit: Write down when your bloating and fatigue started, how often they occur, and any other symptoms or questions you have.
  • Discuss Costs: When booking, ask about expected costs and if discounts are available. Remember, the cost estimates above provide a general idea, but prices can vary.
  • Stay Positive: Seeking professional advice is an important and empowering choice. You’re investing in your well-being, and help is available.

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 post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.