Body Pains and Aches You Should Not Ignore

Pain is, by definition, unpleasant. But, for the most part, mild to moderate pain is temporary and can be ignored or relieved with self-care. However, since pain is intended as a warning of harm, there are times when that tense feeling could mean something serious.

Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide and the first leading cause of disability in the United States. Sudden numbness in the limbs, facial droop, arm weakness, slurred speech, and severe headache should not be taken lightly since these symptoms may indicate a stroke. A stroke can cause permanent brain damage if not treated within 90 minutes.

Most heart attacks involve some sort of discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes.  The discomfort can feel like pressure, squeezing, or pain. Women are somewhat more likely than men to have other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, back pain, or jaw pain.

People who are relatively inactive for a long period of time are at-risk of a developing Deep Vein Thrombosis – a blood clot in the lower leg. Swelling, pain or discoloration of the affected leg can all be signs of DVT but are often mistaken for muscle soreness. DVT is a dangerous condition that can lead to further complications.

Sometimes, aches and pains come in a form that can’t be seen – emotional. Have you been feeling down, depressed or hopeless? Have you or a loved one been losing pleasure in things that are supposed to bring pleasure?  If you find that this is a pattern, something that typifies your existence, it’s time to seek help. People who feel depressed to the point of having suicidal thoughts are in danger of hurting themselves and those around them.