Sometimes we don’t think twice about minor health issues like headaches or fatigue. However, some health symptoms tend to be overlooked and shouldn’t be ignored. Learn about 5 health symptoms that warrant a trip to the doctor.
Changes in bowel habits
Having regular bowel movements is an important part of removing waste from our bodies. Normal bowel movements are different from person, to person, but it is important to know your body so you can identify when an issue arises.
If things such as smell, shape, color, consistency, or frequency change, it should be noted. What you eat can trigger your body to respond in various ways from diarrhea to constipation. These types of changes tend to be temporary, only lasting about a day. However, you should watch for bloody or black stool, and diarrhea and constipation that persist. Abdominal pain, and the inability to pass gas are also red flags.
Constant Fatigue
Depending on your day to day life, activities, and sleep habits you may find that you are occasionally tired. However, if you find yourself experiencing exhausting for days, or weeks on end, or you’re fatigued at strange times, this may be a trigger.
Excessive tiredness can be caused by many things ranging from depression to cancer. It is important to go get blood work and any examinations your doctors deems necessary.
Sudden, Painful Headaches
Some people regularly suffer from migraines. However, if you do not normally experience this type of head pain, sudden headaches can be triggers to immediately see the doctor. This is especially necessary if your headaches worsens with unfamiliar pain.
Sudden headaches can mean that you have popped a blood vessel, signs of singles, meningitis, or a brain aneurysm.
Sudden Weight Loss
Most people love losing weight, especially if it is an intentional goal. However, if you begin dropping a lot of weight without any explanation at all, it could mean there is a medical issue. Drastic weight loss quickly can indicate that you may have a certain form of cancer. Additional unwarranted weight loss may point to are diabetes, depression, or inflammatory bowel or celiac disease.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is a common complaint people can have due to a multitude of things such as constipation, or even simply a very hard workout. However, some abdominal pain should not be ignored. If it is severe, the cause could be anything from gallstones, to an appendicitis. Some issues do not require medical attention, but things such as an appendicitis require immediate action. If you are experiencing abdominal pain, and it persist for more than three days, see your doctor immediately. If you experience chest pain, vomiting, or nausea in addition to abdominal pain, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Neighbors Emergency Center supports your start to a healthier lifestyle. Check our Facebook page to learn more about our new emergency centers. With our 24 hour emergency rooms throughout the Houston metro area, we can treat you quickly and effectively so you can get back to doing what you love.