Does something hurt? Is your body doing something differently? Listen to your body! Often, it exhibits warning signs when something’s not right, and it’s important that we tend to them quickly to avoid complications.

When was the last time you went for a checkup? Whether due to lack of time or money, or because we’re afraid, or simply because we don’t feel like it, we ignore the warning signs from our body that tell us something is not right. Here are 5 signs that warrant a visit to your doctor.

1. A LUMP UNDER THE SKIN

If you find a lump, especially in the breasts, armpits, neck, or genitals, see your doctor immediately; it may indicate cancer, though not every lump is cancerous. It’s also important to be aware of changes in the texture and shape of the breasts.

2. UNUSUAL DISCHARGE OR SPONTANEOUS BLEEDING

If your period is heavier than usual, or you have some unusual discharge, don’t assume that it’s something temporary, as it can point to hormonal imbalance, an infection, or cancer.

3. ABDOMINAL PAIN OR SEVERE CRAMPS

If you’re experiencing persistent pain in the pelvic region or more severe cramping than usual, don’t take it lightly. Abdominal pain can indicate one of many things, from lactose intolerance and colitis to more serious things like celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers, Crohn’s disease, vaginal infection, bladder inflammation, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, cancer, etc.

4. PAINFUL OR MORE FREQUENT URINATION

These symptoms are also red flags, as they can mean inflammation, urethritis, or some other infection caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. However, it’s important to get lab work done to accurately determine the cause and treatment. If you have a fever, pelvic pain, or experience painful sexual intercourse, see your doctor as soon as possible.

5. PAIN, TINGLING, OR SWELLING IN THE EXTREMETIES

It’s vital that we get to the root of any swelling or pins and needles sensation. It’s likely nothing serious, but if it is, there are steps that will need to be taken. Any tingling sensation can point to circulatory problems or illnesses like anemia, diabetes, or multiple sclerosis. Tingling in the feet may indicate a kidney problem.

Swelling can usually be attributed to some kind of inflammation or accumulation of fluids, resulting from disorders like bad blood circulation, weak blood vessels in the elderly, or something more serious like kidney disease, cirrhosis, or a blood clot, the latter manifesting as redness or an increase in temperature in the affected area. If this is the case, avoid massages and exercising, and visit your doctor as soon as you can.

On the other hand, if there is pain, stiffness, or inflammation in the joints (especially upon waking up and in the hands, wrists, ankles, or knees), you might be exhibiting symptoms of arthritis.

DON’T LEAVE IT FOR LATER

These are just some of the symptoms you may experience that can indicate some disease. If you exhibit any of them, talk to your doctor. It’s a thousand times better to confirm that it’s nothing serious than to remain in doubt, or worse, not receive treatment for a serious illness in time.

Remember that this information only helps us detect warning signs and isn’t a diagnosis in any way. It’s important to visit your doctor or a specialist to get proper diagnosis and treatment.

And if you don’t exhibit any of these symptoms, that’s great news! Keep practicing healthy habits like getting in some physical activity, resting, and eating a balanced diet, and make sure you get regular checkups. It’s also good to boost your immune system with the right supplements, like Redoxon®, whose fast-absorbing, effervescent mix of Vitamin C and Zinc helps the body stay strong against things that would threaten our health.

REFERENCES

• Bond-Nelms, C. (2017). 7 health warning signs you should not ignore. AARP. Retrieved from https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2017/health-warning-signs-fd.html
• Donoso, T. (2016) Fíjate en estos dolores y podrás detectar el cáncer antes de que sea fatal. UPSOCL. Retrieved from http://www.upsocl.com/mujer/fijate-en-estos-dolores-y-podras-detectar-el-cancer-antes-de-que-sea-fatal/
• López, A. (2018). Síntomas que no debes ignorar: no lo sabes, pero tienes artritis. El confidencial. Retrieved from https://www.elconfidencial.com/alma-corazon-vida/2018-04-24/sintomas-artritis-que-no-debes-ignorar_1552377/
• González, I. (2018). Siete síntomas de cáncer que no debes ignorar. MSN estilo de vida. Retrieved from https://www.msn.com/es-mx/salud/noticias-medicas/siete-s%C3%ADntomas-de-c%C3%A1ncer-que-no-debes-ignorar/ar-BBOsi1a
• Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). 7 signs and symptoms not to ignore. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/es-es/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/symptoms-not-to-ignore/art-20045276