Most people are guilty of ignoring symptoms at one time or another, especially if they don’t appear to be anything to worry about. However, if you are not a medical professional, how do you really know what is serious and what isn’t?
Discover why you should never ignore unusual symptoms and when to see a doctor right here.
Why you should never ignore unusual symptoms
Although it can be all too easy to ignore unusual symptoms or attribute them to your age or lifestyle, some should never be ignored as they could indicate something more serious.
Heart disease and cancer, for example, are extremely common, with the former killing an estimated 6950,000 people in the United States each year and the former being responsible for 608,570 deaths in 2021 alone. However, both of these serious diseases can often be treated if they are caught early enough.
Early detection can result in better treatment options and outcomes as the disease is more likely to be in the early stages of its development. It can also help to prevent the disease from progressing and reduce the risk of further complications.
If you are currently experiencing any of the most common signs of cancer, you may want to visit the Moffitt Cancer Center which will be able to advise you on the early warning signs of specific cancers.
What are the most common symptoms that people tend to ignore but that can be a sign of something serious?
Headaches are extremely common and usually not anything to worry about. Typically caused by factors such as dehydration, stress, or a lack of sleep, they tend to go away fairly quickly.
1. Headaches
However, if you develop a headache with no apparent trigger or your headache frequency or intensity is different from normal, this could be a sign of an aneurysm or migraine.
2. Change in bowel habits
While there is no normal when it comes to bowel habits, it is important to note any deviations from your usual routine. More specifically, look for changes in stool color and consistency. Changes in bowel habits can indicate a serious health problem such as colon cancer, colon polyps, or Crohn’s disease.
3. Fatigue
Fatigue is one of the most common complaints that doctors receive and is usually a sign that you are not getting sufficient rest. However, in some cases, it could be caused by depression, anemia, a thyroid disorder, or a heart condition.
When should you see your doctor?
It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your health so, if you have genuine concerns about something, make an appointment with your doctor. If you are unable to get an appointment right away and you feel that you need urgent care, head to your nearest emergency room.
If you do feel that you can wait for a doctor’s appointment, make sure that you tell them about any symptoms you are experiencing and how long they have been going on. It can also be a good idea to let them know if they have gotten worse and how they are affecting your daily life.
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Takeaway
Modern life is hectic and going to see your doctor for what may turn out to be nothing can seem like a luxury that you can’t afford. However, when it comes to your health, it is always better to err on the side of caution.
