Cover Image for ChatGPT Becomes a Lifesaver by Diagnosing a Rare Kidney Disease Through Symptom Analysis, According to a Reddit User.
Mon Jan 20 2025

ChatGPT Becomes a Lifesaver by Diagnosing a Rare Kidney Disease Through Symptom Analysis, According to a Reddit User.

A Reddit user mentioned that ChatGPT identified rhabdomyolysis, a condition that affects the kidneys.

A man has shared his experience of how ChatGPT, powered by artificial intelligence, played a crucial role in saving his life by diagnosing a potentially dangerous condition before health professionals could. In a story posted on Reddit, the man credits AI with preventing severe damage to his kidneys.

The situation began when he decided to engage in what he thought was a light workout, which included push-ups, squats, and planks. However, his high coffee intake and dehydration made him feel like he had been "hit by a bus." After two days of constant discomfort, he decided to consult ChatGPT and describe his symptoms. The AI quickly processed the information and recommended that he seek immediate medical attention, diagnosing him with "moderate to severe rhabdomyolysis." Convinced by the AI's analysis, he headed to the hospital.

“They ran lab tests, and it turned out I had developed severe rhabdomyolysis, which is when the muscles break down rapidly and proteins can clog the kidneys,” the man revealed. He also used ChatGPT to analyze his lab results, noting that they were consistent with what the medical team was indicating. "I knew what was happening before the doctor told me, thanks to the analysis performed by ChatGPT," he added.

Rhabdomyolysis is a serious medical condition in which damaged muscle tissue releases proteins and electrolytes into the bloodstream. This can lead to kidney damage or even failure if not treated in time. Common causes include muscle injuries from trauma, extreme exercise, especially in unaccustomed individuals, or prolonged muscle compression, dehydration, or genetic conditions.

Symptoms of rhabdomyolysis include muscle pain, tenderness or stiffness, muscle weakness or swelling, abnormal urine color due to the release of myoglobin from damaged muscles, general fatigue, nausea or vomiting, fever, confusion, or delirium in severe cases. In his post, the man expressed his gratitude toward ChatGPT, emphasizing that stories about AI saving lives seemed distant to him before. "I see those stories about ChatGPT saving other people's lives, but I never thought I would be one of them. Thank you, ChatGPT!" he concluded.