Terri Ramsey Beavers Are you one of the many people who tend to put off trips to the doctor’s office, just hoping that things will get better before you really need to see someone about it? Phobias and anxieties do exist, but they are not excuses, they are challenges to seek help with. Here, we’re going to look at some instances of a serious risk that you could be putting yourself in if you don’t see the doctor when you need to, and the benefits of being more proactive about your health.
You should know the symptoms that are worth a visit
Any symptom that sees your health out of the ordinary for an extended period of time should be worth taking yourself to see the doctor. But when it comes to some of the symptoms that you really shouldn’t be ignoring, some of them might be particularly familiar to you. You only increase the risk of harm done if you don’t take the time to make a doctor’s visit when you really need to, so make sure that you act on these symptoms when they present themselves.
Yes, you should see the doctor if you’re feeling fine, too
There might not be any symptoms to think of, but that doesn’t mean that you should ignore that reminder for a checkup that your doctor has left you. You should get a physical at least once a year, and for plenty of good reasons. Keeping on top of factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar can ensure that you’re made aware of the risk of things like chronic illness ahead of time. What’s more, your doctor can give you plenty of advice on how to improve your health specific to your individual circumstances.
Early diagnosis can be crucial
If you have any persistent symptoms, even if they’re as simple as a cough, then you should make sure that you see a doctor. Even something that is seemingly benign can be a symptom of something as dangerous as cancer affecting the respiratory system. You can greatly improve the outcomes of even some of the most dangerous diseases out there by catching them early. What’s more, it’s important to get evidence of health issues as soon as possible to help you maintain responsibility if, for instance, your employer is responsible for an illness that you have developed.
Addressing your issues with doctors
For some people, it really is as simple as being a little lazy and not wanting to see a doctor just in case there’s some bad news or you get reprimanded for not taking good care of your body. However, if you have medical trauma, a phobia of doctors, or an anxiety disorder that keeps you from getting in touch, then you should find someone to talk to. Counseling can help you get over that fear and the wide-reaching effects that it might have on your life.
Googling your symptoms isn’t a replacement for a real diagnosis. If it’s been over a year since you have seen your doctor, then you should follow the advice here as promptly as possible: make an appointment.