7 Signs and Symptoms You Should Not Ignore
1. Unexpected Body Weight Loss
A sudden and unexplained drop in weight can signal various underlying health issues. Diabetes, depression, thyroid problems (like an overactive thyroid), cancer, or digestive issues that stop your body from absorbing nutrients can all cause this. For example, liver problems or certain digestive conditions may lead to weight loss.
If you lose more than 5% of your total weight over 6 to 12 months without trying, take note. Watch for other symptoms like nausea, weakness, or ongoing tiredness, as these may add to the concern.
2. Ongoing or Very High Fever
A fever that lasts for several days or is especially high (above 103°F or 39.4°C) needs attention. While a mild fever helps your body fight infections, a long-lasting or very high fever can point to serious infections like pneumonia or urinary tract infections. A fever with chest pain, ongoing cough, or a severe headache could be an early warning sign of a dangerous infection.
In people with weakened immune systems, such as those receiving cancer treatment, fever can be even more serious. Certain fevers may also result from new medications or other conditions, so keep track of any recent changes. Seek medical attention if:
- The fever lasts longer than three days.
- It comes with shortness of breath, confusion, or chest pain.
- Other severe symptoms appear, like a severe headache, neck stiffness, or a rash.
3. Difficulty Breathing or Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is concerning if it happens suddenly, stays for a while, or is severe. Asthma, lung diseases, pneumonia, blood clots in the lung, and heart problems can all cause this. Shortness of breath can also come with anxiety or panic attacks, but don’t assume it’s harmless if you can’t find a clear cause.
Infections like COVID-19 or pneumonia may also lead to serious breathing issues. Get checked right away if breathing problems are new, sudden, or interfere with talking or daily activities. Watch for these symptoms along with shortness of breath:
- Blue lips or face
- Severe chest pain
- Weakness or sudden numbness in arms or legs
- Dizziness or fainting
4. Noticeable Changes in Bowel Habits
If you notice blood in your stool, very dark stools, sudden constipation, ongoing diarrhea, or stomach pain that won’t go away, pay attention. These changes can be signs of infections, long-term illnesses like irritable bowel syndrome, or more serious problems like colon cancer.
| Symptom | Possible Condition |
|---|---|
| Blood in stool | Colon cancer, infection |
| Black or tarry-colored stools | Stomach bleeding or ulcers |
| Ongoing diarrhea or constipation | IBS, infections, thyroid disease |
| Persistent abdominal pain | Appendicitis, colon cancer |
Contact a healthcare provider if these changes last more than a few days, get worse, or come with unexpected weight loss or weakness.
5. Sudden Confusion or Changes in Behavior
Confusion, trouble focusing, memory changes, or sudden shifts in personality can signal problems like infections, dehydration, poor nutrition, side effects from medications, or even a stroke or a severe allergic reaction.
Take sudden mental changes seriously, especially in older adults. Watch for dizziness, slurred speech, sudden numbness, or other nerve-related symptoms—these may signal a stroke or other serious conditions.
6. Feeling Full Quickly or Very Easily
If you feel full after eating only a small amount of food, this may be a sign of digestive issues like acid reflux, stomach ulcers, or in rare cases, stomach cancer. Other warning signs to discuss with a healthcare provider include:
- Nausea, vomiting, or bloating along with feeling full.
- Unexplained weight loss over weeks or months.
- Ongoing or worsening stomach pain.
- Loss of appetite for no clear reason.
Early evaluation can help spot digestive diseases before they become harder to treat.
7. Sudden Flashes or Bright Spots in Vision
If you suddenly see flashes of light or bright spots, this may be related to migraines or more serious eye problems. One major concern is when the retina pulls away from its normal position.
This problem is rare but needs emergency attention to help prevent permanent vision loss. These vision changes can also signal complications from long-term diabetes, high blood pressure, or recent eye injuries. See a doctor right away if:
- Flashes are sudden and new.
- There is a shadow or curtain over part of the vision.
- Vision is suddenly blurry or changed.
Serious, sudden changes in vision need quick attention, as some causes can lead to permanent eye damage.
