Many of us take an active interest in health and wellbeing. If you’re on a mission to take good care of your body and protect your mental health, it’s crucial to be aware of symptoms and signs that could potentially be problematic. Here are some red flags you shouldn’t ignore for good health.
Changes in your vision or hearing
We tend to take our senses for granted, and it’s not until we start to notice signs of deterioration or sudden changes that we realize the importance and value of being able to hear and see clearly. Often, changes in your vision and hearing occur very gradually, and this means that people wait a long time to seek advice. If you are struggling to read signs from a distance, the TV has started to become blurred, or you keep asking people to repeat themselves or turning up the volume on the radio, don’t wait. Arrange an appointment to get your sight or hearing tested. If there are any changes to report, healthcare professionals can suggest treatment methods and offer advice to help to reduce the risk of continued issues. If your hearing isn’t as good as it used to be, for example, wearing earplugs at work and making sure the volume is low on your earphones might help.
Dental pain and bleeding gums
Many of us are reluctant to go to the dentist, and we tend to force ourselves only when we get to a stage when pain becomes unbearable. Taking regular trips to the dentist can be hugely beneficial. Seeing your dentist every 6-12 months will reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and it will save you money in the long-term. If you do develop symptoms, such as sore, swollen or bleeding gums, or you’re struggling with severe pain, don’t hesitate to arrange an appointment. These symptoms may be indicative of gum disease, tooth damage, dental infections or an impacted wisdom tooth. If your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort, your dentist may recommend extracting them. It is possible to find dentists who offer low cost wisdom teeth removal, and you should find that you feel much more comfortable after the procedure. If you have symptoms of an infection, for example, a fever, swelling and intense, throbbing pain, you may have an abscess, which will be drained by your dentist.
Unexplained weight loss
If you’ve been dieting, or you’ve increased your activity levels, it’s normal to lose weight. However, if you have been eating normally, you’re as active as you usually are, and you’re dropping pounds, it’s wise to see your doctor. Losing weight when you aren’t trying to is generally a sign of an underlying condition. You can always visit your GP, or busy individuals can get medical house calls with appointments that take place in your home. Regardless of which route you choose, getting assessed by a doctor sooner rather than later is important to prevent complications.
It is very unlikely that there will be anything to worry about, but sudden, unexplained weight loss can be symptomatic of underlying conditions, which may require treatment. Keep an eye on your weight, and if you do have any concerns, make an appointment with your doctor.
Prolonged periods of insomnia
Most people experience a sleepless night from time to time, but if you find yourself waking in the early hours and you can never get back to sleep, or you have difficulty drifting off even though you feel exhausted, it’s best to seek help. Insomnia can affect your physical and mental health, and it can impact your social life, your performance at work or college and your relationships. There are myriad possible causes of sleep disorders, including anxiety and stress, pain, jet lag and issues linked to your routine and your sleeping environment. To reduce the risk of sleepless nights, it’s worth trying to get into a regime, which involves going to bed and getting up at a similar time each day and taking time to unwind and relax in the evening. Avoid checking emails or scrolling on social media in bed and make sure your bedroom is dark and tranquil.
Rising stress levels
Stress is becoming increasingly prevalent. While many of us experience short bouts of stress, some people feel like they’re under pressure all the time. If your stress levels are rising, and this is taking its toll on your health and wellbeing, it’s a good idea to try and find solutions. Talking to health experts can help, and it’s also useful to explore self-help techniques. Some people find exercise, meditation and creative activities beneficial, for example. If you try and ignore stress and the situation doesn’t improve, you might find that you are more susceptible to illnesses and infections, you may have difficulty sleeping and you might experience symptoms of anxiety or depression. Your personal relationships could also suffer.
Lumps and bumps
The vast majority of lumps and bumps are harmless, but it’s always wise to err on the side of caution if you feel a lump under your skin, or you notice abnormal swelling. See your doctor as soon as possible. They will be able to perform tests and examinations to either confirm or rule out a diagnosis.
Tiredness
We all have days when we lack enthusiasm and motivation, and we can’t wait to climb into bed, but if you feel tired all the time, there could be an underlying problem. If you’re sleeping normally and you’re eating well, but you’re exhausted, arrange to see your doctor. Persistent fatigue can be a sign of many health issues, including anemia, thyroid problems, glandular fever, depression, anxiety and diabetes. When you see a health professional, they will ask you about your sleeping patterns and habits, and they may also order blood and urine tests. The results of the tests, combined with physical examinations, will be used to try and diagnose any underlying causes and determine the best treatment options.
It is incredibly beneficial to be aware of potential signs and symptoms that have a negative impact on your health and to ensure that you don’t ignore them. It can be daunting to see a doctor if you’re worried about your health, but acting early can give you peace of mind and ensure that any issues are detected and treated quickly. If you spot any of these signs, pick up the phone and make an appointment as soon as you can.
Leave a Reply