Many people have the same question: when is the best time to see a doctor? Contrary to popular belief, major symptoms and incidents are not the only reasons to visit the doctor. In fact, the most common reason for illness-related doctor’s visits in 2012, according to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, was a cough.
Whatever your situation, keep in mind that early detection can lead to better outcomes for many conditions. A lot of the most complicated and life-threatening diseases might start with minor symptoms. Most of the time this is a way for your body to tell you that something is going on in your system. And 100% of the time, tending to these signs prevent long-term and more serious complications.
Here are some common health issues that can tell when you should visit a doctor:
Sudden Weight Loss
You might think that you suddenly lost weight because you missed some meals or haven’t been sleeping well. While weight loss can be a quite common occurrence for many, it should not be treated lightly all the time.
An unexplained weight loss could be caused by an overactive thyroid, diabetes, depression, or liver disease, among other things. If you’ve lost more than 10% of your body weight in the last six months (and you’re not obese), schedule an appointment with your doctor. This can guarantee more secure health for you. At the same time, you can alleviate its symptoms and be provided with a plan to get your weight back to a healthier track.
Sudden Pains
When you’re tired or have poor posture, it is easy to downplay several kinds of body pains. Abnormal, intense, and long-lasting pain in the chest, abdomen, or pelvis can indicate an underlying problem that necessitates medical attention. Heart attacks in the chest, gallstones in the abdomen (especially if accompanied by nausea and vomiting), and appendicitis or kidney infection in the pelvis are some examples.
When the pain makes you uncomfortable or it becomes unbearable, make sure that you consult with a doctor. They will not only help you alleviate the pain, but they can also look into the causes or other underlying factors for them.
Sudden Mood Swings
Mood swings and sudden confusion can occur as a result of both mental health issues and physical conditions such as an infection or drug interaction. Keep an eye out for difficulty thinking or concentrating, irregular sleeping patterns, and feelings of anxiety or depression.
Keeping good mental health is also important, especially in the event of a pandemic. The ability to stick with a mental health treatment plan in order to overcome an addiction, disorder, or other mental health issue is critical to the treatment’s success.
Telehealth and e-visits are two methods for maintaining a treatment plan while adhering to social-distancing protocols. If the situation becomes out of control, don’t be afraid to contact an emergency room or your mental health provider.
Sudden Changes in Bowel Movement
A lot of things can be associated with changes in bowel movement. For females, menstruation can cause constipation or diarrhea. Intolerance to certain food or ingredients can also lead to bowel movements that cause discomfort. Although instances like these are common, you have to take bowel movement problems more seriously.
Remember that bowel movement and urination differ from person to person, so the most important thing to look for is a sudden change in your own patterns, such as bloody or black stools, diarrhea or constipation, or excessive urination. When these occur, it is best to consult with your doctor.
Key Takeaway
There are some complicated and serious health conditions that require immediate medical attention from a health care professional because they may be symptoms of a much larger problem. Weight loss, pains, mood swings, and changes in bowel movement are all symptoms of more serious health problems that should be addressed right away. Ignoring these could result in a more serious condition, or even death.
