Small Symptoms That May Indicate Big Problems for Women

As women, we often notice little "body quirks" and because we are so busy, we tend to blow them off and keep going about our lives. However, sometimes the smallest symptom may indicate a really big health problem. As hard as it is, we have to slow down and listen to our bodies because they are always telling us something: either that we are healthy or that we are not.

Are You Sprouting Freckles?

No, freckles themselves are not a bad thing, but if they are near your knuckles and eyes they may be telling you something. When they sprout up in these areas, they may indicate high cholesterol in women. Usually, if this is the case, these freckles are not "normal" freckles, but a condition known as xanthoma. It means that your blood lipid levels may be on the rise. The good news is, a simple blood test can give you the answer.

Are Your Nails Peeling?

If your manicures are just not lasting like they used to, this may mean something is going on in your body. More precisely, with your thyroid. Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, may cause your nails to be dry, brittle, ridged and splitting. Talk to your doctor about having your thyroid tested if your nails are peeling.

Are You Really Sensitive to Light?

Being so sensitive to bright lights that you are having to close your eyes or really squint, and sometimes become nauseous and get a headache, is not normal. This is referred to as photophobia and it may indicate a number of eye disorders, such as glaucoma, iritis or a corneal abrasion. See your eye doctor if you are having this issue.

Are Your Eyebrows Thinning?

Thinning eyebrows may not be just a cosmetic or vanity issue. If your eyebrows are thinning, this may indicate a health condition, such as an underactive thyroid. Leaving an underactive thyroid untreated can lead to a variety of other health issues ranging from weight gain and menstrual problems to heart failure. If your eyebrows are not as full as they once were, give your doctor a call.

Do You Smell Differently?

Developing an unpleasant body odor may indicate a serious problem. If you notice that you do not smell as nice as you did before, call your doctor. Some things that may cause an unpleasant body odor include large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (rare type of cervical cancer), infections, genetic abnormalities, sexually transmitted diseases, exposure to toxins, oral disease and diabetes.

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Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Cervical Cancer