We tend to react quickly to a cut or a bad cold – but what about the more subtle signals our body sends?
These commonly ignored symptoms could be your body’s way of flagging something far more serious. Here are 10 warning signs you should never overlook.
Unexplained weight loss
Losing weight without trying might sound like a dream, but it can be a serious red flag.
Dropping more than 5 % of your body weight over six months without changing your diet or exercise routine can indicate underlying health issues.
These might include diabetes, digestive disorders, thyroid conditions, or even cancer.
Persistent fever
A fever that lasts for several days or keeps coming back needs medical attention.
It could signal infections like tuberculosis, autoimmune diseases, or – in rare cases – cancer.
If your fever comes with symptoms like a stiff neck, confusion, rash, or difficulty breathing, call emergency services immediately.
Shortness of breath
Getting breathless after exercise is normal. But if everyday activities suddenly leave you gasping – or your breathlessness lingers even while resting – it’s time to see a doctor.
It could be due to heart issues, lung conditions, or anaemia. Breathlessness combined with chest pain or dizziness is especially concerning.
Changes in bowel habits
Are you going to the bathroom more or less often than usual? Do you notice blood in your stool or consistent constipation or diarrhoea?
These changes might signal infections, IBS, or something more serious like bowel cancer. Any change lasting over three weeks warrants a professional check-up.
Persistent bloating
Bloating that doesn’t go away over time isn’t just uncomfortable – it could point to a digestive disorder or ovarian cancer.
Unlike food-related bloating, this type builds gradually and often comes with other symptoms like appetite changes or weight loss.
Chest pain
Not all chest pain is heart-related, but all of it should be taken seriously. A pressure-like pain that spreads to the arm, jaw, or back might be a heart attack.
Sharp, stabbing pain linked to breathing could be a lung issue. Seek emergency help if your chest pain comes with breathlessness, sweating, or nausea.
Swollen ankles
Ankle swelling from heat or travel is normal.
But persistent or sudden swelling, especially when paired with fatigue or shortness of breath, may suggest kidney problems, heart failure, or even a blood clot.
If redness, pain, or difficulty breathing are also present, it’s time to get checked.
Dizziness
Dizziness has many causes – from dehydration to serious neurological problems.
Feeling like the room is spinning could point to inner ear issues or brain conditions.
If dizziness hits suddenly or comes with slurred speech or weakness on one side, it could be a stroke. Call emergency services immediately.
Extreme fatigue
We all get tired – but constant, unexplained fatigue could be a clue your body is struggling.
It might relate to lifestyle, but it could also indicate diabetes, thyroid issues, or cancer.
If you’re also experiencing increased thirst, frequent urination, or weight loss, see your doctor.
General health changes
Sometimes you just know something isn’t right. That gut feeling – that your body isn’t functioning as usual – is worth listening to.
Whether it’s persistent discomfort, unexplained pain, or strange new symptoms, speaking to a doctor early could make all the difference.
This article is based on information from Patient.info.