Have you noticed something out of the ordinary on your body?
Perhaps you are not feeling your normal self or are experiencing discomfort or pain.
While most unusual symptoms are nothing to worry about, there are some that may indicate a more serious health problem.
From bloodshot eyes to itchy skin to a dry mouth, read on to discover five unusual symptoms that you should always get checked out by your doctor.
1. Excessive sweating
Excessive sweating can be embarrassing for those affected, but in most cases, this symptom is not a sign of something more serious. Affecting around 3% of the population, excessive sweating is a common disorder known as hyperhidrosis.
However, it can also be a symptom of non-Hodgkins lymphoma, a cancer targeting the lymphatic system. You can learn more about this cancer form and its associated treatments at Moffitt Cancer Center.
This type of cancer commonly causes night sweats, sudden weight loss, and rashes on the skin.
2. Dry mouth
Most people experience a dry mouth at some point or another, and this typically occurs when you are dehydrated and will go away once you drink some water.
However, in some cases, dry mouth can be a sign of Sjogren’s syndrome, an immune disorder that causes both a dry mouth and dry eyes.
This condition is most common in women aged over 40, although it can happen to anyone.
3. Itchy skin
Itchy skin or skin rashes normally occur when you are exposed to an allergen or when the skin is too dry and needs to be moisturized.
It can also sometimes be a symptom of a more serious disease or an infection. If your itchy skin or skin rash is painful, spreading rapidly, or not responding to treatment, then you should make an appointment with your doctor to check for diseases such as lupus and connective tissue disorders.
4. Chest pain
Most people know that chest pain can be a sign of a heart attack. However, not many know that it can also be a symptom of skin cancer.
Although in most cases, chest pain is the result of heartburn, indigestion, trauma to the area, or lifting too heavy weights, if you experience chest pain that is severe and that is accompanied by other symptoms such as trouble breathing and sweating, then you should seek medical care immediately.
5. Bloodshot eyes
Bloodshot eyes are often caused by a condition known as conjunctivitis, which typically goes hand in hand with other symptoms such as a sore throat and runny nose. Conjunctivitis can be easily treated with over-the-counter eye drops that do not require a prescription from a doctor.
However, if your bloodshot eyes do not go away or do not respond to treatment, then you may have a more serious health problem, such as glaucoma, which can lead to blindness. If you suspect that your bloodshot eyes are something more serious, then you should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
