Is your body telling you to see a doctor? Every day ailments can usually be treated with a few painkillers and some TLC. Perhaps all you need is a good rest, some homemade soup and a long, hot bath. However, there will be times where your usual remedies don’t work. That may be because your body is warning you that something bigger is going on. Here are some health symptoms you should never ignore.
HEADACHES
Headaches are part and parcel of life. Perhaps you have a headache because you’ve had too much screen time, or you’re dehydrated. The most common reason for persistent headaches is the need for glasses or a different prescription. If you prefer contact lenses, visit http://www.bausch.com.au/ to browse your choices. However, there are times when a headache can indict something far more worrisome. For example, blurry vision that comes on suddenly can be an indicator of diabetes.
VISION IMPAIRMENT
Coming down with the flu can make you feel like you’re seeing double, but vision problems when you feel otherwise healthy should always be checked. Seeing bright dots, losing vision in either of your eyes or not being able to see in your peripheral vision are things that can indicate something going on in your health. For instance, stroke victims can suddenly lose part of their vision which can mean they need medical attention to avoid the risk of a second stroke.
BLOOD IN YOUR URINE
Many women make the mistake of thinking blood in their urine is just a side effect of the menstrual cycle, even when their period has finished. In fact, blood in the urine outside of a period is a strong indicator that something is wrong. If you experience blood in your urine, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. It could be something as simple as a small injury during sex or something as complicated as bladder cancer.
A PERSISTENT COUGH
A cough that won’t go away is another red flag that shouldn’t be ignored. Again, coughs are common symptoms of the common cold or flu, but if a cough persists, it should be explored. You may find that the cough is a symptom of something easily treatable, like bronchitis or allergies. However, a cough that won’t go away can also be a symptom of more difficult to treat illnesses, like lung cancer or pneumonia. If a cough lasts longer than two weeks, it’s important to see a doctor for advice and treatment.
SUDDEN WEIGHT LOSS
There are plenty of women who work hard to lose weight. However, when weight suddenly drops off without much effort, it isn’t a reason to celebrate. Losing a significant amount of weight without trying to can be an indication of an underlying condition. For example, weight loss can be one of the first signs of Crohn’s disease, celiac disease and depression. It can also be a sign of many forms of cancer. If you’re concerned about your weight, visit a doctor and discuss any other symptoms you may be experiencing.
PAIN NEAR YOUR BELLY BUTTON
Surely a painful belly button can’t mean anything sinister? Well, that’s not necessarily true. Navel pain could mean that your bowel is inflamed. Crohn’s disease is a condition that inflames the bowels and may leave you with additional symptoms, such as diarrhea, weight loss and fatigue. It could also be an indicator of a condition like endometriosis which often misdiagnosed in women time and time again. The only way to confirm a diagnosis of endometriosis is by laparoscopy and many women don’t want to go under surgery just to get a diagnosis. However, endometriosis can be very painful, so prescribed painkillers can help women to manage their daily lives.
YELLOWING SKIN
Skin yellowing or the whites of eyes yellowing is a clear sign of jaundice. It’s certainly not part of any common illness, so if you experience yellow skin it’s time to visit your doctor. Jaundice can mean that there is a gallstone present blocking the bile duct. When the bile duct is blocked it stops the bile from travelling into the small intestine. Jaundice can be improved by removing the gallstone and your doctor will arrange a scan to find out exactly where the gallstone is.
UNUSUAL COLOURED URINE
It’s always important to monitor your bowel movements in case of any significant changes. If you notice your poop or urine turning a different colour, there may be a medical condition you’re unaware of. Taking certain vitamins may make your urine look lighter, but if it appears darker, this may also be indicative of gallstones. The same can be said for lighter looking poop. Your doctor may ask for a stool or urine sample to check on what’s going on in your body.
SWOLLEN LEGS AND ANGLES
Bloating is common symptom of pregnancy, so many women can experience it in their lifetimes. During pregnancy, it can be totally normal to look down and see your ankles and legs looking swollen (if you’re able to see them at all). However, when you’re not pregnant, swollen ankles and legs is not normal. It can mean there’s a build up of fluid, otherwise known as edema. This can occur because of a heart valve problem that needs immediate medical attention. So, if you notice these kinds of symptoms it’s important to get them checked as a matter of urgency.
UNUSUAL DISCHARGE
Discharge is a usual part of a woman’s life. Your discharge will change during the menstrual cycle and you should get used to what is normal and what is not. A stringy glue type consistency when you are most fertile is usual, along with a thicker consistency as you come towards your period. If you notice a strong, foul smelling discharge, or a watery or bloody consistency it’s time to get checked out. These can all be indicators of cervical cancer, so it’s important to attend regular cervical smear tests.
JAW PAIN
The most obvious reason for jaw pain is toothache. Visiting your dentist can rule out any underlying problems and treat them quickly. However, jaw pain can also be an indicator of an oncoming heart attack in women. The statistics for heart attacks in women are lower than men, but there are some clear signs that women have reported experiencing before heart attacks. These include jaw pain, arm and back pain and chest pains.
PAINFUL SEX
There are times when pain during sex can be a one-off experience. Perhaps you’ve ended up in an awkward position, vaginal dryness is to blame or you experience an allergic reaction to lubrication. If painful sex happens more often than once, it could be a cause to worry. Serious diseases, like endometriosis, sexually transmitted diseases or UTI’s could be the cause of your pain. You may want to visit a sex clinic to investigate why you’re experience pain and how to treat the problem.
LOSS OF FEELING IN YOUR HANDS AND FEET
It may feel like an odd sensation but you’re probably not too worried by a numbness in your hands and feet. This sensation is called neuropathy and could be linked to diabetes. Diabetes tends to limit the blood flow to your hands, feet, arms and legs. If left too long without diagnosis, not only can the diabetes get worse but the numbness in your hands and feet can cause long term damage.
If you experience any unusual symptom that persists longer than a fortnight, it’s wise to get checked by a medical professional.
