Is your body trying to tell you something?

Sudden Weight Loss

Although many people are happy to lose weight through sensible dieting, unexplained weight loss should never be ignored, especially when we can't put it down to a relationship break-up or stress at work.

It can sometimes be a sign of a long-term undiagnosed serious illness like an eating disorder, over-active thyroid gland, hidden infection, malabsorption - where nutrients are not taken up from the intestines properly - or, at the very worst, a stomach tumour.

Skin blemishes

Check out any blemishes that seem to be changing. While in many cases, lesions will turn out to be harmless, it can be difficult for even a doctor to know until the patch has been examined under a microscope.

If diagnosed early, the majority of skin cancers can be removed and the problem cured. Look out for typical signs like the mark growing larger, darker, scaly, itching, weeping, crusting, scabbing or developing a raised, rolled edge.

Check any ulcer or sore that gets worse or fails to heal within three weeks

Pain that keeps coming back

Most people suffer from aches and pains every now and then. But if you notice a pain that keeps coming back, such as a headache, indigestion, abdominal or chest pain, you should tell your doctor. This is especially important if you also have any other symptoms, such as weight loss, tiredness, lethargy, stiffness or a change in bowel habit.

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