Latest news with #symptoms
Daily Mail
10 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE The terrifying truth about CT scans: Doctors say they are necessary to diagnose illness - yet studies prove they cause cancer... and there is one time you should absolutely say NO
A knock to the head during a football match, a lingering cough that won't quit, or a strange set of symptoms for which you need an answer. For these and any number of other reasons, you may find yourself inside a CT scanner.
Health Line
11 hours ago
- General
- Health Line
What Causes a ‘Fishy' Vaginal Odor and How Is It Treated?
A fishy or unusual vaginal odor isn't always a cause for concern. But if you're experiencing itching, pain, or other unexpected symptoms, it could point to an underlying condition like bacterial vaginosis. A healthy vulva and vagina may smell a bit like blood or copper, somewhat salty or sweet, or musky. A fishy odor may even happen from time to time with no underlying cause. In many cases, changing into a fresh pair of underwear after a bath or shower is enough to restore your usual odor. An odor that lingers after a thorough wash or occurs alongside other unusual symptoms could warrant an appointment with a doctor or other healthcare professional. Vaginal discharge, for example, is typically clear or slightly cloudy with a sticky, stringy consistency. In the days before menstruation, it might be closer to white than clear. Discharge tinged with gray, yellow, or green could point to an underlying infection, especially when coupled with an unpleasant odor, itching, or burning. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) A lingering change in odor, particularly a foul or fishy scent, is most commonly caused by BV Your body naturally contains a wide variety of bacteria, and your vulva and vagina are no exception. Although the body can usually maintain this delicate balance of bacteria, unexpected fluctuations can increase the risk of infection. BV can develop in response to an overgrowth of certain bacteria. However, the exact cause is unclear. You may be more likely to develop bacterial vaginosis if you: Other symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include: thin vaginal discharge that's gray, white, or green strong vaginal odor after sexual activity pain during or after penetrative sex pain or burning during urination itching in or around the vagina Trichomoniasis ('trich') Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite. People who have penises are generally asymptomatic, whereas people who have vulvas often experience symptoms. In addition to a foul or fishy vaginal odor, trichomoniasis can cause: increased vaginal discharge foamy or frothy discharge white, yellow, or green discharge pain during or after penetrative sex pain or burning during urination itching in or around the vagina redness around the vaginal opening Dehydration If you tend to notice the odor after you urinate, it could be a sign of dehydration. Urine is primarily water, with a small percentage of urea and other waste. If you aren't well hydrated, waste may be more pungent than usual. Urea, for example, is a byproduct of ammonia. It's often associated with a chemical-like smell, though some may describe it as fishy. Sweat Sweat-related body odor is often described as skunky, but this is ultimately subject to interpretation. Consider your recent activity levels — anything from lugging groceries up the stairs to lifting weights in the gym — and when you last washed up or changed your clothes. Your overall temperature, the fit and fabric of your clothes, and the weather outside can also contribute to genital sweating. Hygiene So-called 'feminine' hygiene products, like scented sprays and suppositories, can temporarily disrupt your overall vaginal pH. This can result in inflammation and irritation that may, in turn, lead to the overgrowth of odor-causing bacteria. Practices like douching and steaming can also alter the vagina's natural microbiome, increasing your risk of injury or infection. Sexual activity Solo or partnered play, with or without vaginal penetration, can also spur an unexpected change in scent. Condoms and lube, for example, can affect your vaginal pH. So can the exchange of bodily fluids. Sex toys and other erotic aids can also introduce bacteria, particularly when shared or improperly cleaned. Bacterial vaginosis and other underlying infections can exacerbate these symptoms, making your post-sex smell more pungent than usual. Trimethylaminuria In rare cases, a fishy odor may be the result of an inherited condition called trimethylaminuria. Your body naturally produces trimethylamine (TMA) when breaking down certain foods. The strong-smelling chemical generally breaks down into a less fragrant compound, allowing your body to excrete TMA without notice. People who have trimethylaminuria are unable to process TMA as expected. This can cause your breath, sweat, urine, or vaginal secretions to smell rotten or fishy. The smell may intensify with hormonal fluctuations, including menstruation and menopause. When should you consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional? If you've had a prior bacterial vaginosis infection, you might be comfortable using an at-home test to assess your current symptoms. You might also feel comfortable using an at-home STI test to check for trichomoniasis. This usually involves taking a urine sample to send to a lab. A healthcare professional will likely reach out to discuss a positive result. If you're uncomfortable with at-home testing or unsure of your symptoms, it's important to consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional. The following symptoms typically require medical intervention: strong vaginal odor after sexual activity gray, yellow, or green vaginal discharge foamy, frothy, or increased vaginal discharge soreness, burning, or itching Your clinician will ask you questions about your symptoms, your medical history, and recent sexual activity to help identify the potential cause. They'll likely perform a pelvic exam to check for inflammation and other abnormalities. Your clinician may also swab inside the vagina to take a fluid sample for lab testing. They may also ask you to provide a urine sample. If you aren't experiencing symptoms but have concerns about your scent, consult with a gynecologist or other healthcare professional. They can answer any questions you may have and may be able to set your mind at ease. What treatment options are available? Although bacterial vaginosis can resolve on its own, antibiotics can help speed the process along and alleviate your symptoms. A healthcare professional may prescribe: metronidazole, which can be applied topically or taken as a pill clindamycin, which can be applied topically, inserted as a suppository, or taken as a pill tinidazole, which is taken as a pill secnidazole, which is taken as a powder mixed with food Some over-the-counter products are marketed as effective treatments for bacterial vaginosis, but it's important to note that the Food and Drug Administration has not approved any over-the-counter method for use. Trichomoniasis will not resolve without treatment. Your clinician will likely prescribe the oral antibiotic metronidazole. Generally speaking, odor related to sweat, dehydration, and vaginal irritation can be managed with certain lifestyle changes. Limiting time spent in damp or wet clothes, washing more frequently, and staying hydrated can help. Lifestyle changes may also help with trimethylaminuria. Consult with a healthcare professional to learn more. What can you do to prevent unwanted vaginal odor? Practicing good hygiene is the best way to prevent unwanted vaginal odor. Depending on your activity level, this may look like bathing or showering every day, every other day, or just a few times per week. Warm water is all you need to cleanse your vulva, but you can also use a mild, fragrance-free soap. Stick to the external bits — your vagina is a self-cleaning machine. Internal 'cleansers' like douches are more harmful than helpful. When it comes to menstrual hygiene, keep an eye on the clock. Different products have different guidelines for the length of use. You may need to change your pad, tampon, cup, disc, or menstrual underwear more frequently. Wash your hands before and after changing menstrual hygiene products. If you use a reusable method, be sure to check out the manufacturer's guidelines for care. Avoid spending extended periods of time in sweaty clothes, particularly damp underwear or swimsuit bottoms. Wash up, pat yourself dry, and change into something dry as soon as possible. Opt for breathable materials, like cotton, when selecting underwear. You might also consider sizing up on pants, shorts, and other bottoms for a looser fit or selecting clothes with an airy silhouette. Adopting safer solo and partnered sex practices can also make a difference. Much like menstrual hygiene products, condoms, lubricants, sex toys, and other erotic aids have different guidelines for use. Regular STI testing can help you stay on top of your status and, if needed, start treatment sooner rather than later. The bottom line Your vulva — which includes your labia and vaginal opening — smells differently throughout your menstrual cycle. Different forms of physical activity, recent food intake, and overall hydration can also affect your unique scent. As long as you aren't experiencing other unusual symptoms, a change in smell may not be a sign of anything more. If the odor intensifies or lasts for more than a day or two, it could be related to an underlying infection or other health condition.
Health Line
18 hours ago
- General
- Health Line
What To Know About Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in Pregnancy
The changes that happen in the body during pregnancy can cause blood clotting, but the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is low. Symptoms of DVT include swelling, warmth, and pain in a leg. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that develops in a deep vein in the: DVT is not common during pregnancy, but pregnant people are at least 5 times more likely to develop DVT than people who aren't pregnant, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Blood-clotting protein levels increase during pregnancy, while anti-clotting protein levels decrease. This helps reduce the amount of blood lost during delivery. The enlarging uterus during pregnancy may also increase the risk because it puts the veins of the lower body under additional pressure to return blood to the heart. This article takes a closer look at DVT during pregnancy, including symptoms, risk factors, how it affects the baby, and more. What are the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in pregnancy? The most obvious symptom of DVT is swelling and heavy pain or extreme tenderness in one of your legs. Approximately 82% of DVT cases in pregnancy occur in the left leg. Other symptoms of DVT can include: pain in the leg when standing or moving around pain in the leg that worsens when you bend your foot up toward your knee warm skin in the affected area visible veins that appear enlarged discoloration or red skin at the back of the leg, typically below the knee bluish toes slight to severe swelling Around 50% of people with acute DVT may be asymptomatic. It occurs more often in post-op patients, particularly those who have undergone orthopedic surgery. The chances of having asymptomatic DVT before or after pregnancy are unlikely. But those with multiple risk factors should receive adequate screening for DVT, especially after cesarean delivery. When should you see a doctor? See a doctor as soon as possible if you suspect DVT. Diagnosed DVT is not a medical emergency and is unlikely to harm you or your baby unless there are serious complications. It's best to get checked early to begin DVT treatment. Is it a muscle cramp or a symptom of DVT? You may experience muscle cramps during pregnancy. They typically affect the calf during the second and third trimesters, particularly at night. Muscle cramps during pregnancy are not a medical emergency. They can be prevented or relieved with: stretching and movement hydration massages magnesium supplements comfortable, supportive footwear Swelling is a symptom of DVT Muscle cramps do not cause leg swelling. Unlike muscle cramps, stretching and moving around will not improve pain from DVT. Pulmonary embolism vs. DVT A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a blood clot that travels to the lungs. DVT commonly causes it. PE is rare during pregnancy but more common compared with people who are not pregnant. Symptoms of PE can include: sudden shortness of breath chest pain or tightness in the chest a cough that produces blood-streaked sputum (mucus) rapid heartbeat Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a medical emergency If you or someone you know has PE symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, contact 911 or your local emergency services immediately. How do doctors diagnose deep vein thrombosis during pregnancy? It's not always easy to diagnose DVT in pregnancy from symptoms alone. A doctor may order multiple tests to confirm the diagnosis, including: D-dimer test: This blood test identifies pieces of a blood clot that have broken off into your bloodstream. D-dimer levels above a certain threshold may indicate a higher risk of PE, but doctors typically conduct further testing because levels normally fluctuate during pregnancy. Doppler ultrasound: This scan determines how fast blood flows through a blood vessel. A Doppler ultrasound helps a healthcare team establish whether blood flow is slowed or blocked, a possible sign that indicates a blood clot. Venogram: If a D-dimer test and ultrasound cannot confirm a DVT diagnosis, a doctor may use a venogram or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A venogram involves injecting a liquid called a contrast dye into a vein in your foot. The dye moves up the leg. The dye shows on an X-ray, which pinpoints a gap in the blood vessel where the clot stops the blood flow. According to a 2019 review of over 40 studies, a venogram is the 'gold standard' for a DVT diagnosis. How do doctors treat deep vein thrombosis during pregnancy? A doctor can form a treatment plan if you develop DVT during pregnancy. They may refer you to a specialist, such as a hematologist (blood specialist) and a maternal medicine or obstetric medicine specialist. To treat DVT, a doctor may recommend once or twice daily injections of the blood-thinning agent low-molecular-weight heparin. This treatment may help to: stop the clot from getting bigger help the clot dissolve in the body reduce the risk of further clots You'll likely have regular checkups and blood tests to ensure the clot dissolves and no further clots appear. A doctor may recommend at-home practices for DVT in addition to medication. These may include daily walks, keeping the affected leg elevated when sitting, and following your prescribed anticoagulant medication schedule. How does deep vein thrombosis during pregnancy affect the baby? DVT during pregnancy typically does not affect the baby unless there are serious complications. Doctors and researchers consider heparin safe to use during pregnancy because it doesn't cross the placenta, so there is no risk to your baby. Depending on your anticoagulation regimen, you must stop taking injections as soon as you begin labor, or at least 12 to 24 hours before inducing labor or a planned cesarean delivery. If you want to nurse your baby, you will have to stop the injections after birth. For those with a mechanical heart valve, a doctor may prescribe warfarin (Jantoven) to ensure the baby's blood doesn't thin. This medication carries significant risks for you and your baby, particularly before birth. Fetuses exposed to warfarin may develop congenital disabilities. Discuss whether the benefits outweigh the risks with a doctor. Together, you may decide not to breastfeed or to stop taking anticoagulants while nursing your baby. What are other complications of deep vein thrombosis during pregnancy? Untreated, DVT can have lasting effects on the body. Long-term DVT can lead to permanent swelling of the veins and fluid retention. In rare cases, a clot can dislodge and move to the lungs, resulting in a PE. Another rare complication from DVT is venous gangrene of the toes or fingers. Irreparable damage to the veins from DVT may result in chronic post-thrombotic syndrome. This is a collection of symptoms associated with leg pain and ulcers. Finally, taking anticoagulants raises the risk of side effects like bleeding. Report any unusual bleeding, such as nose bleeds, bloody stool/urine, or bruising, to a doctor if you take these medications. Who's at risk for deep vein thrombosis during pregnancy? Factors that can increase your risk for DVT during pregnancy include: having a previous history of clots or DVT having a family history of DVT being over 35 having a BMI of 30 or higher carrying twins or multiple babies having fertility treatment having had a previous, recent cesarean delivery sitting still or being bedridden for long periods smoking having preeclampsia having certain chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure (hypertension) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) having severe varicose veins Race and DVT risk Research indicates that DVT and PE occur more frequently in Black Americans than in white Americans. The researchers speculate that this disparity has to do with increased risk factors, such as higher BMI and blood clotting protein levels. The data did not take pregnancy into account. What can you do prevent deep vein thrombosis during pregnancy? There isn't a way to definitively prevent DVT in pregnancy. But taking certain steps can help to reduce your risk: Stay active with pregnancy-safe exercises. Wear compression socks during air travel and walk around at least once every hour. Move your legs when sitting down, for example, by raising and lowering your heels and your toes and flexing your ankle. Wear support hose. Quit smoking, if you smoke. See a doctor immediately if you notice any pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling in your legs. Pregnant people at high risk for DVT may receive a preventive dose of heparin, either during the entire pregnancy or for 6 to 8 weeks postpartum. What's the outlook for people who develop deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during pregnancy? While DVT isn't common in pregnancy, it's a serious condition that can be fatal if the clot dislodges and moves into the lungs. Be aware of the symptoms and risk factors if you are pregnant or at risk for DVT. Let a medical professional know right away if you suspect DVT. Early treatment and ongoing management can help keep you and your baby safe.
Health Line
a day ago
- General
- Health Line
What Causes a Dry Throat, and How Is It Treated?
A dry throat is often caused by a head cold, dehydration, or sleeping with one's mouth open. Effective home treatments are available, but consider seeing a doctor if symptoms last longer than one week. A dry, scratchy throat is a common occurrence, especially during the cold winter months when the air is dry and upper respiratory infections are spreading. Usually, a dry throat is a sign of something minor, like dryness in the air or a head cold. Looking at your other symptoms can help you determine the cause of your dry throat and whether to call a doctor. This article reviews ten common causes and treatment options for a dry throat. 1. Dehydration The dryness in your throat may simply be a sign that you haven't had enough to drink. Dehydration can also be caused by loss of body fluids, such as vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, or increased urination. When you're dehydrated, your body doesn't produce as much of the saliva that normally moistens your mouth and throat. Dehydration can also cause: dry mouth increased thirst darker urine, and less urine than usual fatigue dizziness Treatment options Drink extra fluids during the day. Recommendations on how much to drink vary, but a good average is 15.5 cups of fluid for men and 11.5 cups for women. One study found that adults get between 27 % and 36% of their fluid from fruits, vegetables, and other foods. Foods' water content is highly variable, and many factors influence daily food selection. Make sure you're drinking fluids that hydrate, such as water or sports drinks. Avoid caffeinated sodas and coffee, which can cause your body to lose more water. 2. Sleeping with your mouth open If you wake up every morning with a dry mouth, the problem might be that you sleep with your mouth open. The air dries up the saliva that normally keeps your mouth and throat moist. Mouth breathing can also cause: bad breath snoring daytime fatigue Snoring could be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which your breathing repeatedly pauses throughout the night. Congestion from a cold or chronic allergies, or a problem with your nasal passages, like a deviated septum, can also lead to mouth breathing. Treatment options If you have a sinus or congestion problem, applying an adhesive strip to the bridge of your nose can keep your nose open while you sleep. Adhesive strips for noses can be purchased online or at your local pharmacy. For obstructive sleep apnea, your doctor can prescribe an oral appliance that repositions your jaw or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy to keep air flowing into your airways during the night. It's worth noting that not everyone with sleep apnea needs an oral appliance or CPAP. Treatment options depend on the severity of your symptoms. Mild cases may be managed with behavioral changes. Also, the FDA recently approved tirzepatide for obstructive sleep apnea. 3. Hay fever or allergies Hay fever, also called seasonal allergies, is caused by an immune system overreaction to normally harmless substances in your environment. Common allergy triggers include: grass pollen pet dander mold dust mites When your immune system senses one of your triggers, it releases chemicals called histamines. This can lead to symptoms like: stuffed, runny nose sneezing itchy eyes, mouth, or skin cough Congestion in your nose may make you breathe through your mouth, which can dry out your throat. The extra mucus can also drip down the back of your throat. This is also known as postnasal drip, and it can make your throat feel sore. Treatment options To prevent allergy symptoms, avoid your triggers as much as possible. It may be helpful to: Stay indoors with the windows closed and the air conditioning on during the peak of allergy season. Put dust mite-proof covers on your bed. Wash your sheets and other bedding weekly in hot water. Vacuum your carpets and dust your floors to pick up dust mites. Use an air cleaner/air purifier. Be sure to change your air filters regularly and keep the humidity setting below 50%. Clean up any mold in your house. Keep pets out of your bedroom. You can also control allergy symptoms with these treatments: antihistamines decongestants allergy shots eye allergy drops 4. Cold A cold is a common infection that's caused by many different viruses. The infection can make your throat feel dry and scratchy. You'll also have symptoms like these: stuffed, runny nose sneezing cough body aches mild fever Treatment options Most colds last a few days. Antibiotics don't treat colds because they only kill bacteria, not viruses. To help you feel better while your body gets over the cold, try these remedies: Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to relieve a sore throat and body aches. Suck on a throat lozenge. Drink warm liquids, such as broth and hot tea. Gargle with a mixture of warm water and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Use a decongestant nasal spray to relieve a stuffy nose. Drink extra fluids to keep your mouth and throat moist and prevent dehydration. Get plenty of rest. Turn on a humidifier to moisten the air in your room. 5. Flu The flu is a respiratory illness. Like a cold, a virus causes the flu. But flu symptoms tend to be more severe than those of a cold. Along with a sore, scratchy throat, you may have: fever chills cough stuffy, runny nose muscle aches headache fatigue vomiting and diarrhea The flu can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions or a weakened immune system. Complications of the flu include: pneumonia bronchitis sinus infections ear infections asthma attacks in people who already have asthma Treatment options Antiviral drugs can reduce flu symptoms and shorten the amount of time you're sick. But you have to start taking these medications within 48 hours of when your symptoms start for them to work. While you're sick, try these methods to relieve your sore throat and other symptoms: Rest until your symptoms improve. Suck on a throat lozenge. Gargle with a mixture of warm water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to lower your fever and ease body aches. Drink warm fluids, such as tea and broth. 6. Acid reflux or GERD Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that causes acid to back up from your stomach into your esophagus. The esophagus is the pipe that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. Acid burns the lining of your esophagus, causing symptoms like: a burning feeling in your chest, called heartburn trouble swallowing dry cough burping up sour liquid hoarse voice If the acid reaches your throat, it can cause pain or burning. Treatment options GERD is treated with: antacids, such as Maalox, Mylanta, and Rolaids, to neutralize stomach acids H2 inhibitors, such as cimetidine (Tagamet HB) and famotidine (Pepcid AC), to reduce stomach acid production proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as lansoprazole (Prevacid 24) and omeprazole (Prilosec), to block acid production Try these lifestyle changes to help relieve symptoms of acid reflux: Maintain a moderate weight. Extra weight puts pressure on your stomach, forcing more acid up into your esophagus. Wear loose-fitting clothing. Tight clothes — especially tight pants — press on your stomach. Eat several small meals a day instead of three big meals. Raise the head of your bed while you sleep. This will prevent acid from flowing upward into your esophagus and throat. If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking weakens the valve that keeps acid in your stomach. Avoid foods and drinks that can trigger heartburn, such as spicy or fatty foods, alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, mint, and garlic. 7. Strep throat Strep throat is a throat infection caused by bacteria. Usually, your throat will be very sore, but it can feel dry, too. Other symptoms of strep throat include: red and swollen tonsils white patches on your tonsils swollen lymph nodes in the neck fever rash body aches nausea and vomiting Treatment options Doctors treat strep throat with antibiotics — drugs that kill bacteria. Your sore throat and other symptoms should improve within two days after you start taking these medications. Make sure you take the full dose of antibiotics your doctor prescribed. Stopping too early can leave some bacteria alive in your body, which could make you sick again. To relieve your symptoms, take an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). You can also gargle with warm water and salt rinse and suck on throat lozenges. 8. Tonsillitis Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils — the two soft growths in the back of your throat that help your body fight infections. Both viruses and bacteria can cause tonsillitis. Along with a sore throat, symptoms of tonsillitis can also include: red, swollen tonsils white patches on the tonsils fever swollen lymph nodes in the neck hoarse voice bad breath headache Treatment options If bacteria caused tonsillitis, your doctor could prescribe antibiotics to treat it. Viral tonsillitis will improve on its own within a week to 10 days. Here are some things you can do to feel better while you recover: Drink a lot of fluids. Warm drinks like tea and broth are soothing to the throat. Gargle with a mixture of warm water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt a few times a day. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). Put on a cool-mist humidifier to add moisture to the air. Dry air can make a sore throat worse. Suck on throat lozenges. Rest until you feel better. 9. Mononucleosis Mononucleosis, or mono, is a disease caused by a virus. It passes from person to person through saliva. One of the hallmark symptoms of mono is a scratchy throat. Other symptoms include: tiredness fever swollen lymph nodes in your neck and armpits headache swollen tonsils Treatment options Because a virus causes mono, antibiotics won't treat it. Here are some tips to help you feel better until your body gets over the infection: Get plenty of rest to give your immune system a chance to fight off the virus. Drink extra fluids to avoid dehydration. Take over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to bring down a fever and relieve your sore throat. Suck on a lozenge and gargle with warm salt water to help with throat pain. 10. Overuse of voice Overusing your voice, like yelling during a music concert, can cause your vocal cords to become irritated or inflamed. It can also lead to laryngitis. Other symptoms include: hoarseness weak or lost voice raw or sore throat Treatment options Viral laryngitis will improve on its own, usually within two weeks. Here are a few tips to help you feel better: Rest your voice. Drink extra fluids, especially warm tea or broth. Suck on a lozenge and gargle with warm salt water to help with throat pain. Take over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to relieve your sore throat. When to see your doctor In some cases, you may be able to relieve your symptoms with home treatment. But if your symptoms last longer than a week or worsen, see a doctor. They can make a diagnosis and work with you on a care plan. You should also see a doctor if you experience more severe symptoms. Severe symptoms include: a severe sore throat that makes it painful to swallow shortness of breath, wheezing rash chest pain excessive tiredness during the day loud snoring at night fever higher than 101°F (38°C)
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Cancer warning as two common symptoms that strike at night could be early indicators
Two symptoms that commonly flare up at night may be the harbingers of a potentially lethal condition. Struggling with these nocturnal disturbances could hint at cancer. With over 200 unique types, cancer can present itself in various forms within the human body. While certain symptoms are tied to specific locations, SurreyLive points out that some broader warning signs could easily slip under the radar, particularly those manifesting at night. Cancer Research UK experts note that experiencing intense night sweats or persistent insomnia could both point towards cancer. READ MORE: State pensioners warned they can no longer claim these 6 benefits READ MORE: Two 'common' early symptoms of dementia that are not memory loss It's essential to remember, these symptoms aren't exclusive indicators of the disease, as they can arise from many other ailments too. However, if you notice sudden sleep disruptions or exaggerated sweating at night – which isn't typical for you – it might be wise to consult a doctor. Cancer Research UK emphasises: "It's important to be aware of what is normal for you and speak to your doctor if you notice any unusual changes or something that won't go away. This can help to diagnose cancer at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful.", reports the Mirror. Night sweats. Night sweats can be chalked up to a variety of factors, from the temperature of your room to the climate or even sharing your bed. But Cancer Research UK is sounding the alarm on "very heavy, drenching night sweats" and unexplained fevers, warning that these symptoms could signal something as serious as lymphoma. The NHS is also flagging up that if you're waking up to sheets soaked through with sweat, it's time to book an appointment with your GP. They explain: "Night sweats are when you sweat so much that your night clothes and bedding are soaking wet, even though where you're sleeping is cool." It's worth noting that certain cancers are often linked with causing night sweats, including:. Insomnia isn't just tossing and turning; it's a prevalent issue that affects roughly one in three people at some point, triggered by stress, anxiety, health complications or injuries. Cancer Research UK is highlighting that persistent insomnia might not just be about counting sheep – it could be a symptom of cancer, arising from pain, illness related to the cancer, treatment side effects, or the emotional turmoil like anxiety, stress, or depression that often comes with grappling with a cancer diagnosis. The charity points out: "If you often have insomnia, it can interfere with everyday life. You may feel very tired and have low energy. "You might also have poor concentration, and irritability, and may feel you cannot cope." Other general signs that could hint at cancer include:. Should you notice any of these unexplained symptoms, it's recommended to seek advice from a doctor.
