You know the routine. Feeling like something's off in your body and completely ignoring it. We’ve all been there. However, paying attention to your body’s warning signs could prevent serious health complications.
Let’s take a look at 5 examples of symptoms you shouldn't ignore.
1. Unexplained weight loss
Unexplained weight loss could signify serious health issues like cancer, thyroid problems, diabetes, or digestive disorders. Don't ignore this warning sign. Early detection and timely action can prevent severe complications.
2. Persistent fatigue
Feeling tired is normal. We’ve all been there. After a long day at the rat race, it’s common to feel a bit worn down. But when it’s persistent, you shouldn't ignore it. Chronic fatigue can be linked to various health problems, including anaemia, thyroid dysfunction, sleep disorders, or even depression. There’s a significant relationship between fatigue and psychiatric disorders.
3. Chest pain or discomfort
Chest pain should never be taken lightly. And we don’t mean heartburn after your kebab the night before. Ongoing chest pain or discomfort can be a sign of a heart-related issue. Ignoring it won’t make it go away. Instead, it could have severe consequences, like a heart attack.
A study explains the significance of addressing chest pain. Confront chest pain head-on to fend off serious health problems.
4. Persistent joint pain
Aches and pains are a common side effect of ageing, right? Mild joint discomfort might not be alarming, but persistent or worsening joint pain shouldn’t be ignored. It can lead to decreased mobility, deterioration of joints, and reduced quality of life. Research has shown the issues of ignoring joint pain in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis. Addressing and treating conditions such as this early leads to better health outcomes.
5. Sudden change in bowel movements
Sudden changes in bowel habits like persistent diarrhoea, constipation, or bloody stools, should never be ignored. Symptoms like this could be a symptom of inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, or gastrointestinal infections.
Research has shown the importance of addressing sudden changes in bowel habits to improve outcomes and ensure a healthy digestive system.
The numan take
Listen to your body. Especially when it’s banging on the door, telling you something’s up. Take control of your health and deal with these issues as soon as they arise.
Joe is an avid writer. He loves puns and rhymes, but most importantly, strives to write copy that motivates men to change their lives for the better. Away from Numan, you can find Joe probably annoyed at a Watford F.C. game, enjoying a boogie at a disco night, or on a bike ride along the Thames.
Clinical Governance Lead, MPharm, Postgraduate Diploma in General Pharmacy Practice
Lauren leads on clinical governance at Numan, ensuring that everything we do prioritises high quality care, excellent patient safety and experience. Lauren has years of experience in Medicines Information and Advisory from her time at Imperial College London Hospitals. She considers herself a generalist pharmacist as she has worked in various hospital specialities, including Intensive Care and Neurosurgery.
