We’ve all been there: that moment when an ache or a pain just will not stop bothering you; or when a seemingly harmless cold turns into a week-long battle that you don’t have the time or mental capacity for. Sometimes, the body is sending signals that it’s time to seek out professional help and find out what’s going on.
If you have reached the stage where the pain you are experiencing is becoming more and more difficult to cope with, then it is probably time to schedule an appointment. Here are some tell-tale signs that you can’t afford to ignore.
Unrelenting Symptoms
When you find that your sore throat or persistent cough just won’t budge, it is time to consider a visit to the GP. It is no secret that ongoing symptoms can be a sign of a more complex underlying issue that could require immediate medical attention, and ignoring these signals will only prolong these negative experiences (along with potentially leading to more serious problems).
Unexplained Fatigue
Feeling tired after a long day is one thing (especially in the current economy), but if fatigue becomes a constant unwelcome companion—even after a full night’s sleep and some time off work—it’s time to pay attention.
Chronic fatigue can stem from a variety of causes, including medical conditions such as anemia, vitamin D deficiency, thyroid problems, or even sleep apnea (where the body isn’t able to get any high-quality REM sleep).
Your doctor should be able to help identify the root cause and then offer you the appropriate treatment to help get it sorted. More often than not, it is a simple issue with a simple fix!
Stubborn Pains
That twinge you have unwillingly discovered in your neck from sleeping in an awkward position last night will most likely go away on its own; but if you’re dealing with persistent pain, or pain that seems to be getting worse, get it checked out. It is a warning sign for a reason.
Mood Swings and Mental Health Changes
Mental health matters just as much as physical health. If you find you are experiencing sudden mood swings or changes in your emotional wellbeing (especially if they have no clear origin) you shouldn’t ignore them.
Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are common and nothing to be ashamed of. Your doctor should provide guidance, recommend therapies, provide treatment, or refer you to a mental health specialist if needed so you get the right help.
If you aren’t feeling well in yourself mentally, it can be incredibly difficult to pick up the phone, but you can always head over to TapGP to make an online appointment instead.
Digestive Distress
Your stomach tells you a lot; if you are experiencing frequent indigestion, acid reflux, or persistent stomach aches, these digestive troubles can significantly disrupt your daily life. These symptoms could be linked to several different issues such as dietary choices, stress, or underlying gastrointestinal conditions, to name a few. Consulting your doctor can help you identify triggers and work out what the cause might be.
