The doctor needs to see you now

Punteha van Terheyden shines a light on red flag symptoms too many of us often ignore

With doctor’s surgeries busier than ever, it’s natural to put off an appointment for symptoms you could ignore. But worrying new statistics reveal we are pushing aside red flags about potentially dangerous conditions because we don’t want to cause a fuss. And 32 per cent are ignoring symptoms entirely.

Dr Chintal Patel says: “More patients are putting things off, thinking we’re too busy, or assume their symptom isn’t serious without asking an expert.

“I’m seeing patients delaying contacting us because they don’t want to bother doctors or they were scared of coming in because of Covid. But the earlier you seek help, the better.”

So which things should set alarm bells ringing and how long should you wait before seeking medical help?

Breast changes

More than 3,500 woman-are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in Ireland and early detection is vital.

Dr Chintal says: “Most people who come to see us won’t have breast cancer, but conducting a proper breast exam every month is key to noticing what’s not normal for your body.”

Look out for breast, chest or armpit lumps (usually painless) and skin changes like dimpling, puckering or rashes. Any discharge or bleeding from the nipples, as well as retraction – the nipple going inwards – should be checked by a GP as soon as possible.

To do a thorough monthly self-examination, check your breasts, the area up to the top of your collarbones, down to the top of your abdomen and into your armpits.