There are certain things that make us RUN to the doctor immediately: Worrisome lumps, serious accidents, illnesses that aren’t improving. When it comes to more minor issues that we know aren’t life threatening however, many of us put off seeking medical attention. We live with the problems despite the fact that they make us uncomfortable. Perhaps this is because we think there’s nothing the doctor could do, we don’t want to bother them with something that isn’t serious, or because we hope they will go away on their own. The fact of the matter is we shouldn’t live with health issues that are uncomfortable or annoying. Not only could they be a sign of an underlying problem that needs to be checked out, but they can also impact our quality of life. Here are some irritable health issues that you might be living with, but you don’t have to.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a condition where sufferers hear ringing, buzzing, hissing, chirping, whistling, or other sounds. They can be heard intermittently in some people but constantly in others. For some it’s a minor annoyance but for others it can be life changing. While tinnitus doesn’t usually suggest a major problem, it can be a result of noise exposure, age related hearing loss or circulatory issues. Visit your GP or audiologists office to have it checked out, in some cases something as simple as earwax removal can ease symptoms.
Digestive issues
Whether it’s bloating, regular diarrhea or constipation, flatulence, feelings of sickness or being sick, digestive issues aren’t something you should live with. Even ‘harmless’ symptoms like very noisy gurgling can be embarrassing, especially when you work a professional job. IBS is often the culprit for digestive problems, and your doctor can help you to monitor your symptoms and find your triggers so you know to avoid them. There’s also medication you can take to make you feel more comfortable. Other cases of digestive problems can be a result of food intolerances, or even lifestyle choices. For example, eating while talking or walking can lead to more air being swallowed. Eating the wrong foods or overeating can cause stomach and digestive problems. You don’t have to live with pain, discomfort or embarrassment when there are lots of ways you can alleviate this.
Premenstrual syndrome
PMS is annoying at best, but can be debilitating at worst. Some women find they even need to take time off work where the symptoms are so bad. While everyone is different, it’s important to note that very severe pains probably aren’t normal and should be checked out by your doctor. Endometriosis, polycystic ovaries and other issues can all result in serious pain and other symptoms so don’t try and brave it alone. For most women, a few lifestyle changes really can help. Avoid caffeine, since this can heighten worry and emotions during a time that you’re naturally more teary and anxious. This is due to levels of fluctuating hormones. Exercise and healthy diet can both help to regulate and stabilize hormones which can help with all symptoms. Keep a diary to track your moods, and know that when you are feeling low this will likely pass within a couple of days.
Back pain
Back pain is something that everyone will experience at one time or another. It’s often a result of an injury; bending down, twisting, picking up something too heavy or even sleeping on it wrong can all be causes. However some back issues are more persistent and many people live with chronic back pain. Some of the things you can do yourself include buying a new mattress, sleeping in a ‘dip’ or on an unsupportive bed can cause pressure points and leave you feeling stiff every morning when you wake up. Losing weight can also help in many cases, if you have a large stomach this can pull down and drag your spine out of alignment. Losing weight while strengthening your core and back muscles can completely get rid of this kind of pain. Start small, go to the gym and use some equipment that you’re comfortable on such as an exercise bike. Once you’ve built up a foundation level of fitness, you can use other exercise machines all of which will strengthen different areas of your body. However, because back pain can be a result of a slipped disk or nerve issues, it’s important to have it checked out by a doctor before taking on a new exercise regime in case you make it worse.
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