Your body is changing all the time, and this can make it easy to ignore the symptoms of certain life-threatening conditions or hope that these symptoms will go away of their own accord. However, it’s vital that you listen to and take note of the changes that are happening in your body, especially if they’re paired with other symptoms or if you don’t feel like yourself. Here are some of the body changes that you should always see a doctor about.
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Swollen Lymph Nodes
You have lymph nodes in several places in your body, including your neck, under your chin, and in your armpits. These lymph nodes get rid of toxic substances and kill potentially cancerous cells.
However, one of the main symptoms of lymphoma, a common type of cancer, is swollen lymph nodes. Although your lymph nodes might swell at any sign of infection, if they stay raised for a longer period of time, and you have no cold or flu symptoms, it’s important that you speak to a doctor about it. This is especially the case if these swollen lymph nodes are paired with fatigue, night sweats, and indigestion. By being aware of lymphoma symptoms, you can make sure that you get the treatment that you need as early as possible, with many types of lymphoma having a high survival rate.
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Unexplained Weight Loss
You can lose weight if you’re stressed or if you’re exercising or eating less than usual, and you might even be trying to lose weight. You might also lose weight if you have diabetes, an overactive thyroid, or have recently been ill. However, if your weight loss is unexplained, this might be a cause for concern, especially if this weight loss is noticeable and dramatic, or happens in a short space of time.
To make sure that it’s nothing serious and that you can get the support that you need if your weight loss has been caused by a life-threatening illness, such as cancer, you should always take notice if your weight changes, and book a doctor’s appointment if you or your loved ones are worried.
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Changes to Your Skin
It’s also important that you don’t ignore any changes to your skin. For instance, although moles do change over time, if they start to darken or grow, this might be a sign of cancer.
You should also consider seeing a medical professional if you have a spot that hasn’t disappeared for months or is constantly returning, and you should also record if your skin starts to get rougher, if it starts to get red or itchy, or if your skin starts to swell.
Changes to your skin could be a sign of anything from melanoma to skin conditions such as eczema, as well as allergic reactions, and it’s important to get them checked if they’re uncomfortable or if they’re abnormal for you and your body. This can help you to put your mind at rest.
Author Bio: Dan is a father of two who is also passionate about alternative medicine, education, the great outdoors and animal welfare.