Don't Overlook Your Health: Signs You Should see a Medical Specialist

Pain is your body's attempt to get your attention when something might be wrong. While everyone will experience pain when stubbing their toe or getting a paper cut, it is important to know when pain is indicating that a serious medical issue is taking place. Here is a quick look at some signs and symptoms that mean you should seek out a medical specialist immediately.

Jaw Pain

Also referred to as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the jaw is one of the most complex joints in the body. For the average person, pain in this area is due to misaligned teeth, oral infections, or TMJ disorders. Unfortunately, chronic jaw pain could also be the result of a major infection, a tumor, or other types of damage. Ongoing discomfort accompanied by any sharp pain or swelling will require immediate attention.

Sharp Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can be the result of issues with almost any organ in the body. Those that still have their appendix should be especially wary about any sudden pain in the abdomen with no obvious causes. Currently, around 250,000 cases of appendicitis occur every year in the United States, and sharp pain around the stomach is typically the most common sign.

Inflammation Around Varicose Veins

In most instances, varicose veins do not present any major medical issues and can be easily removed by a skin care specialist. There are some signs, however, that varicose veins are causing serious problems and should be treated immediately. This includes any inflammation around the veins themselves or the patient's calf. Sharp pain and throbbing in these areas of the body should be checked by a professional as soon as possible in the case that superior care may be needed.

Sudden Vision Loss

Sudden changes to one's eyesight is almost always the result of a serious disease or other medical condition that must be treated right away. If you lose vision in one or both eyes, you must call 911 or head into the local emergency room in order to prevent permanent damage. Some other issues that could be causing vision problems include a scratched cornea, cancer of the eye, a brain tumor, or an infection. The eyes are often referred to as the “window” to one's overall health as many conditions manifest themselves in one's eyes.

It is never a good idea to take any chances with your health or the health of your family. If you or a loved one ever experiences any of these symptoms, then you should seek out immediate medical attention.