We all like to think we know our bodies well enough to recognise something wrong. However, it’s easy to dismiss persistent issues as normal, which can lead to more serious complications if left unchecked.
Dr Ahmed, a UK-based GP, has highlighted “three symptoms you must not ignore” that should be mentioned during a check-up. While many of these could be brushed aside, they sometimes need attention.
Dr Ahmed pointed out that back pain is “very common” and usually improves with anti-inflammatory medication, along with gentle exercise and stretching. But he warned: “If you have had back pain for more than six weeks, please go to your doctor to make sure there are no serious underlying causes.”
For severe or persistent back pain, GPs may offer pain relief or muscle relaxants and, in certain cases, refer patients for physiotherapy, reports the Mirror. Pain between your back and shoulder blades is nothing to suffer in silence about. It can often be explained and treated.
The GP also noted that ‘eye floaters’ are fairly common, with most people seeing the occasional squiggly line in their vision. While typically benign, Dr Ahmed advised that an increase in floaters or the presence of “black spots” in your vision should prompt a medical consultation.
He said: “Most of the time, it’s completely normal, and there is no serious underlying cause. However, if you have gotten a sudden increase in the number of floaters or have lots of black spots in your vision, you must get this checked out as well.”
If you’re experiencing issues with floaters or flashes in your vision, an optician must check your eyes. They can determine whether you need further tests or treatment from a specialist. Usually, treatment is only necessary if there’s a problem that could potentially affect your sight.
Dr Ahmed also highlighted chronic fatigue as a common issue many people experience but often overlook. We might feel tired for many reasons, such as a long day at work or intense physical activity.
However, sometimes, there’s no apparent cause for the fatigue, leading to a state of extreme tiredness where functioning becomes difficult. He explained: “There could literally be hundreds of reasons for this and, thankfully, a lot of them aren’t serious.
“However, I think it’s something that a lot of people don’t mention because they think it’s nothing to worry about or think it’s something doctors may not even take seriously. But you must, just to make sure nothing else is going on.”
This could indicate chronic fatigue syndrome, a condition characterised by severe tiredness that isn’t alleviated by rest or sleep. It can also affect memory and concentration. If you’re worried about any of the symptoms mentioned, you should book an appointment with your GP.