An ITV doctor has issued a vital public health message, urging people not to ignore specific symptoms that could signal serious underlying conditions, including cancer.
Five Critical Symptoms That Need Medical Attention
Dr Amir Khan, a familiar face on ITV, has detailed five specific health signs that should prompt an immediate appointment with a general practitioner. This advice is designed to help catch serious illnesses at an early, more treatable stage. The guidance comes as health officials express concern over the winter strain on Accident and Emergency departments, which are seeing thousands of patients with minor ailments that could be treated elsewhere.
The first and most common warning sign is a persistent cough. Dr Khan strongly advises that anyone with an unexplained cough lasting for three weeks or more should see their doctor without delay. This symptom is a frequent presentation of lung cancer, particularly in smokers, and may lead to a referral for a chest X-ray or scan.
For individuals aged 55 and over, new and unexplained acid reflux requires investigation. While there are many potential causes, it is essential for GPs to rule out cancers of the stomach or oesophagus (food pipe) when this symptom appears without a clear reason.
Other Vital Signs Not to Ignore
The list of critical symptoms continues with post-menopausal bleeding. Any woman who has been through the menopause and experiences any vaginal bleeding after a year or more without a period must seek medical advice. This check is crucial regardless of how light the bleeding may be.
Unexplained blood in the urine is another red flag. Patients noticing this, especially if passing the blood was painless, must consult their GP. Even a single episode that has since cleared up warrants professional investigation.
Finally, changes to moles on the skin demand evaluation. Any mole that is new, growing, changing shape, itching, or bleeding should be examined by a doctor to assess the risk of skin cancer.
A Plea to Ease Pressure on Emergency Departments
Alongside this vital symptom advice, the article carries a stark warning about the misuse of hospital A&E units. Officials revealed that last year, emergency departments dealt with over 200,000 patients whose conditions could have been treated by a GP or pharmacist.
These inappropriate attendances included people with minor complaints such as blocked noses, sore throats, earaches, and remarkably, 384 cases of hiccups. Dr Khan's guidance aims to direct people with potential serious symptoms to the right primary care service while freeing up emergency resources for genuine crises.
By being aware of these five key symptoms and using health services appropriately, the public can play a crucial role in safeguarding their own health and supporting the NHS during its busiest season.
