It’s easy to dismiss certain symptoms as just a minor inconvenience or a passing ailment. However, some symptoms could be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to long-term health complications, and in some cases, even prove fatal. Here are ten symptoms that should never be ignored:.

1. Persistent Fatigue

Feeling tired on a regular basis is common, but persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest could be a sign of an underlying condition.

Chronic fatigue syndrome, anemia, and sleep apnea are some of the conditions that can cause unrelenting fatigue. If you’re experiencing constant tiredness, it’s time to see a doctor.

2. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath can be caused by many things, such as exercise or lack of physical fitness. However, if you’re experiencing difficulty breathing even while at rest, it’s time to seek medical attention.

Shortness of breath could be an indicator of respiratory diseases, pulmonary hypertension, or heart failure – all of which require prompt medical attention.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you’re losing weight without trying to, it could be a sign of an underlying illness. Unexplained weight loss could be due to conditions such as cancer, thyroid disorders, or diabetes.

It’s important to see a doctor to rule out any serious conditions before attempting to regain weight.

4. Persistent Pain

Chronic or persistent pain that doesn’t go away even with medication could be indicative of a serious health issue. Conditions such as fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, or nerve damage could cause persistent pain.

If you’re experiencing frequent or consistent pain, it’s best to talk to your doctor to find out the root cause.

5. Changes in Bowel and Urinary Habits

Experiencing changes in your bowel movements or urination habits could be a sign of a medical issue. Blood in urine or bowel movement, constipation, or diarrhea could be indicative of colon or bladder cancer.

It’s important to consult with a doctor if you experience any changes in your bowel or urinary habits.

6. Persistent Heartburn

Occasional heartburn is common and can be treated with over-the-counter medication. However, if you’re experiencing frequent or persistent heartburn, it could be a sign of GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease).

Left untreated, this condition could cause damage to your esophagus. It’s important to talk to your doctor about persistent heartburn to find the root cause.

7. Inexplicable Fever

A fever could be a sign of an underlying condition. If you experience a fever that lasts for more than three days or have a temperature above 102°F, it’s time to see a doctor. Prolonged fever could be a sign of infection, inflammation, or cancer.

8. Skin Changes

Changes in the appearance or texture of your skin should not be ignored. Moles, lesions, or patches that grow or change shape could be indicative of skin cancer.

If you notice any changes in your skin, see a doctor immediately to ensure it’s not something more serious.

9. Vision Changes

Changes in your eyesight should not be ignored. Blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss could be due to eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal detachment. If you experience any changes in your vision, see an eye doctor immediately.

10. Mental Health Changes

Changes in mental health, such as depression, anxiety, or insomnia, should not be ignored. While these conditions may not be life-threatening, they can impact your quality of life.

It’s important to talk to a qualified mental health professional to get the care you need.