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Our body communicates through symptoms when something is wrong, and ignoring these signals it gives us can make the condition worse or delay proper diagnosis and treatment, with serious consequences for our health. In this article we will talk to you about some of the symptoms that you should never ignore and whose cause it would be advisable to try to find out as soon as possible.
1. Unexplained weight loss
Whether or not you’re one of those people who wouldn’t mind shedding extra pounds, the fact that weight loss occurs involuntarily and can’t be explained by changes in diet or regular exercise can be a sign of alarm.
There are many conditions whose symptoms include unexplained weight loss, including hyperthyroidism, diabetes, depression, liver disease, cancer, or various disorders that prevent normal nutrient absorption. None of these diseases should be neglected. On the contrary, it is desirable that they be diagnosed as quickly as possible, so that they can be treated effectively and the necessary measures can be taken to prevent complications.
It is therefore essential to see a doctor when this happens, especially if you have lost more than 5% of your body weight in the last 6 to 12 months.[2]
2. Pain
Pain of various types and intensities is a common symptom associated with many conditions, some more severe than others. That is why it is not advisable to ignore it.
Chest pain? It can be a sign of a heart attack, pneumonia or simply indigestion.[1] Does your throat hurt when you swallow? The list of the most common causes includes cold, flu, cough, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, otitis, trauma to the neck or inflammation of the lymph nodes. In rare cases, sore throat when swallowing can also be a symptom of certain types of cancer.[3] Ignoring this symptom can therefore have unwanted consequences.
The same can be said, for example, about severe abdominal pain, pain when urinating, back pain, leg pain and severe headaches.[1]
3. High or persistent fever
Fever is usually the body’s response to an infection or disease, a sign that it is fighting off such a condition. When it persists for more than three days, exceeds 39 degrees Celsius or is accompanied by other serious symptoms such as severe headache, difficulty breathing, confusion, severe pain in the throat or chest, we should immediately consult a doctor .
A high or persistent fever can indicate various conditions, from a urinary tract infection to tuberculosis. That’s why it’s essential to go to the doctor and find out what’s causing it.[2]
4. Breathing difficulties
Breathing difficulties can occur due to intense physical exercise, obesity, a panic attack or extreme temperatures. But it is also a symptom associated with certain health problems, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia or pulmonary embolism.
Get medical help if you experience breathing difficulties, especially if they come on suddenly or are very severe. He or she may perform a physical exam and order additional tests to determine the cause of these symptoms. Only after that can we talk about an adequate treatment.[2]
It is essential to be aware of the signals our body is sending us and not ignore symptoms such as those mentioned above. These can be signs of serious conditions and should motivate us to consult a specialist as soon as possible who can tell us whether or not they are a cause for concern.
Bibliography:
„6 Types of Pain You Shouldn’t Ignore”, Everyday Health21 Apr. 2022, www.everydayhealth.com/pain-management-pictures/6-types-of-pain-you-shouldnt-ignore.aspx. Accessed 19 July 2023.
„7 Signs and Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore”, Mayo Clinic2022, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/symptoms-not-to-ignore/art-20045276. Accessed 19 July 2023.
Nall, Rachel. „Painful Swallowing: Possible Causes and How to Treat It”, Healthline20 Apr. 2016, www.healthline.com/health/painful-swallowing. Accessed 19 July 2023.
2023-08-12 11:18:19
#symptoms #shouldnt #ignore
