19 Doctors Share Health Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Persistent High Fever: Not all fevers are the same, and not all fevers should be reduced with medication. Fever is a normal response to fighting off infections. However, a high fever that persists should either be managed with medication or require medical attention. Common sense should be used, but it's a reminder that common sense isn't always common these days.
Bleeding Gums: As a dental hygienist with 15 years of experience, never ignore bleeding gums when brushing or flossing. Bleeding gums are a sign of early gum disease, which can progress to periodontitis. Regular dental check-ups are crucial, and healthy gums don't bleed.
Sudden Heartbeat or Ringing in Ears: Young women should be aware of the newly occurring sound of a heartbeat or ringing in their ears, as it could indicate increased intracranial hypertension, leading to severe complications like blindness.
Persistent Side Pain Near the Abdomen: Don't ignore a persistent pain in your side near your abdomen, as it could be a sign of stage 4 cancers in the blood or pancreas.
Severe Pain in the 'Funny Bone': A sudden severe pain in the 'funny bone' could be a sign of a severe heart attack.
Medical Check-ups: If you're not feeling well, get it checked out. Sometimes it's nothing, and other times it can be very serious. Early detection is crucial, and yearly check-ups are essential.
Vaccinations: Ignoring vaccinations is a serious matter. Get your kids vaccinated, as you never know what they might be exposed to. Unvaccinated children lack immunity once breastfeeding ends.
Snoring and Sleep Apnea: As a registered nurse with severe obstructive sleep apnea, don't ignore snoring. Get a sleep study to determine if you have sleep apnea. Using CPAP or biPAP equipment is crucial for your health and the safety of others if you drive.
Unintentional Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss is never normal. It's often associated with serious conditions like AIDS, new diabetes, or malignancy. Parents should be concerned if their child loses a significant amount of weight in a short time.
Sudden Mental Health Deterioration: Medical professionals should be aware of sudden changes in mental stability, as they can be telltale signs of actual diseases. Undiagnosed conditions like OCD, ADHD, or dyslexia can mask more serious issues.
Cardiac Symptoms in Women: Working in an ER, it's important to note that cardiac symptoms in women are not as clear-cut as in men. Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and other symptoms are more common in women with STEMIs, while men often have chest, arm, or jaw pain.
Worsening Symptoms Not Responding to Treatment: Any symptom that is steadily worsening and not responding to treatment should be a red flag. It's a good idea to suggest additional studies and close monitoring for potential severe underlying conditions.
Sudden Reduction in Exertion Tolerance: Athletes should be cautious of a sudden reduction in their ability to exert themselves. A sudden drop in performance could indicate an underlying health issue.
Bloody Stools and Urinary Incontinence: It's not okay to ignore bloody stools for days, painful bowel movements, or urinary incontinence. These symptoms could indicate serious gastrointestinal or urinary tract issues.
Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is a semi-emergency for ENT specialists. Quick triage is essential, and while steroids might help, cochlear implants could be an option for severe cases.
Sudden Appearance of Floaters in Vision: If you notice a sudden appearance of multiple new floaters, flashing lights, or a new curtain in your vision, get an eye exam immediately. Don't delay, as it could be a serious eye condition.
