A leading UK GP has issued an urgent health warning about several subtle symptoms that many people routinely ignore, potentially putting their long-term health at serious risk.
The Silent Warning Signs Your Body Sends
Dr. Sooj, an experienced NHS GP from Hampshire, has identified seven commonly overlooked symptoms that could indicate underlying health issues requiring immediate medical attention. Speaking from his clinical practice, Dr. Sooj emphasised that many patients dismiss these warning signs until their conditions become more serious.
The first critical symptom involves unexplained changes in bowel habits. While occasional digestive issues are normal, persistent alterations lasting more than a few weeks could signal something more concerning. "If you notice blood in your stool, that's an immediate red flag," Dr. Sooj stressed. "Similarly, persistent diarrhoea or constipation that doesn't resolve with simple treatments needs proper investigation."
Another often-ignored symptom is difficulty swallowing. Many people attribute this to stress or eating too quickly, but Dr. Sooj warns it could indicate serious throat or oesophageal conditions. "If you consistently feel like food is getting stuck, or experience pain when swallowing, don't just put up with it," he advised.
Symptoms That Demand Immediate Attention
Unexplained lumps anywhere on the body represent another crucial warning sign. Dr. Sooj specifically highlighted that many patients delay seeking help for new lumps, particularly if they don't cause pain. "Any new lump, swelling, or thickening that persists for more than three weeks needs professional assessment," he stated firmly.
Persistent bloating that doesn't improve with dietary changes has also made the GP's list of concerning symptoms. While bloating is common, especially among women, Dr. Sooj noted that continuous bloating lasting three weeks or more warrants medical consultation.
The GP also highlighted unusual bleeding as a symptom that should never be ignored. "This includes coughing up blood, blood in urine, bleeding between periods, or post-menopausal bleeding," he explained. "Any unexpected bleeding requires prompt medical evaluation."
When to Seek Medical Help
Mole changes represent another critical area of concern. Dr. Sooj recommended using the ABCDE checklist when monitoring moles: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour changes, Diameter increase, and Evolution or change over time. "If you notice any of these changes, particularly in existing moles, seek medical advice promptly," he urged.
Finally, the GP emphasised the importance of addressing unexplained weight loss. "Losing significant weight without trying, especially if it's more than 5% of your body weight over 6-12 months, needs investigation," Dr. Sooj cautioned. "Many serious conditions can cause unintentional weight loss."
The NHS GP reassured patients that while these symptoms don't automatically indicate serious illness, they serve as important warning signs that deserve proper medical assessment. "It's always better to get symptoms checked early rather than waiting until problems become more advanced," Dr. Sooj concluded, encouraging people to trust their instincts about their bodies and seek professional advice when concerned.
