If You Observe These 7 Signs, Your Body Needs a Health Checkup

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to take action. Here are seven changes in your body that you should pay attention to, along with their possible causes, deficiencies, and ways to care for them.

Are you one who doesn't like visiting a doctor for small health issues like a common cold or mild headaches? But what if the headache is continuous? Isn't it worrisome? It could also indicate associated health issues.

The human body's best feature is its ability to show signs of illness. Although small changes might initially seem insignificant, they indicate potential health issues, including nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or chronic conditions. 

In this article, let’s understand these health issues, their causes and signs, and what you can do to manage them. 

7 Signs and Symptoms Not to Ignore

Your body often signals when something isn’t right, but these signs can be easily overlooked. Here are 7 symptoms you should never ignore, as they could indicate health issues that need attention.

• Cracked or Dry Lips

Flaky, dry skin is often a sign of an allergy. For example, whenever your lips start to crack or dry out, it might indicate that you are allergic to certain cosmetics. 

Dry lips might also indicate a Vitamin B, A, and E deficiency. In more severe cases, they could be a sign of an autoimmune disease called Sjogren Syndrome.

Signs:

• Lips feel rough, flaky, or sore.
• Peeling or bleeding lips.
• Deep cracks in the corners of the mouth

Causes:

• Dehydration.
• Extreme weather conditions (cold or dry air).
• Excessive licking of lips.
• Allergic reactions to lip products.
• Vitamin deficiencies.

Possible Deficiency:

• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin).
• Iron deficiency.
• Zinc deficiency.

How to Care?

• Stay hydrated by drinking enough water daily.
• Apply a good-quality lip balm with SPF.
• Include vitamin-rich foods like leafy greens, eggs, and dairy 
• Avoid licking your lips, as it worsens dryness.
• Get your Vitamin B12, Iron, and other tests from Redcliffe Labs to determine your deficiency and receive appropriate treatment.

• Loss of Eyebrows

Thick eyebrows are trending. But what does it mean when you start experiencing eyebrow loss or thinning? It could indicate abnormal thyroid functioning, biotin deficiency, and iron deficiency. Consult your doctor for a proper evaluation and get an appropriate blood test.

Signs:

• Thinning or complete loss of eyebrow hair.
• Hair loss starts from the outer edges of the brows.

Causes:

• Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism).
• Alopecia areata (an autoimmune condition).
• Skin conditions like eczema.
• Stress and hormonal imbalances.

Possible Deficiency:

• Biotin (Vitamin B7) deficiency.
• Iron deficiency.
• Zinc deficiency.

How to Care?

• Get your thyroid levels checked if you notice persistent eyebrow thinning.
• Increase biotin-rich foods like eggs, nuts, and avocados.
• Manage stress through relaxation practices such as yoga and meditation.
• Apply coconut oil to your eyebrows to promote growth.
• If you notice persistent eyebrow thinning, consult your doctor for a Thyroid and vitamin profile test. 

• Nail Dystrophy (Brittle or Discolored Nails)

Most of the girls love long nails and like getting nail art done. As much as you pay attention to beautifying your nails, observe the natural color and structure. Any color change or structure might be an indication of nutritional deficiency. For instance, pale and thin nails indicate anemia and deficiency of iron, while the yellow appearance of the nails is a sign of liver disorders or fungal infections. If the nails are brittle, it might indicate calcium, vitamins, beta-carotene, etc.

Signs:

• Thin, brittle, or peeling nails.
• White spots or ridges on the nails.
• Yellowing or discoloration.

Causes:

• Frequent exposure to water and chemicals.
• Fungal infections.
• Underlying medical conditions like psoriasis.
• Nutritional deficiencies.

Possible Deficiency:

• Iron deficiency.
• Vitamin B7 (Biotin) deficiency.
• Zinc deficiency.

How to Care?

• Keep nails trimmed and moisturized.
• Eat a balanced and healthy diet rich in iron and protein.
• Avoid nail polish removers with acetone, which can weaken nails.
• Get a Vitamins & Mineral Screening Package from Redcliffe Labs to learn about your vitals and treat them appropriately and in a timely manner.

Read more: How Does Calcium Benefit Your Body and How Much Do You Need?

• Red Face

There could be many reasons why a person's face would turn red. For instance, it could be due to someone being in an emotionally compromised position, who would blush, and they would turn red. A person who might be drinking more alcohol than they're used to could turn red. Persistent facial redness can be a sign of high blood pressure or lupus. Consult a doctor if you experience additional symptoms like dizziness or joint pain.

Signs:

• Persistent redness or flushing of the face.
• Visible small blood vessels on the skin.
• Burning or tingling sensation.

Causes:

• Rosacea (a chronic skin condition).
• Sun damage or excessive exposure to heat.
• Alcohol consumption.
• Hormonal fluctuations.

Possible Deficiency:

• Vitamin B3 (Niacin) deficiency.
• Essential fatty acid deficiency.
• Zinc deficiency.

How to Care?

• Avoid triggers like spicy food, alcohol, and extreme temperatures.
• Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products.
• Wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin.
• Include omega-3-rich foods like flaxseeds and salmon in your diet.
• If redness persists, seek medical advice and get a Vitamin B3 (Niacin) test done.

• Bright Contour Along with Pale Lips

When it comes to the color of your lips, it is very important to notice any visible changes.

For example, if the lower lip border is swollen or small bubbles appear, it shows that your body is sensitive to UV rays. The redness in the middle of your lips could be due to an allergic reaction. Pay attention to the products you're using. Visit a doctor if the swelling lasts more than a few hours.

Signs:

• The area around the lips appears noticeably brighter.
• Lips look pale or lack natural color.

Causes:

• Poor blood circulation.
• Anemia.
• Nutritional deficiencies.

Possible Deficiency:

• Iron deficiency.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency.
• Folate deficiency.

How to Care?

• Increase iron-rich foods like spinach, lean meats, and legumes.
• Consume Vitamin C-rich foods to improve iron absorption.
• Get tested for anemia and take supplements if recommended by a doctor.
• Avoid excessive caffeine, which can interfere with iron absorption.

Also Read: Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and iron are the top micronutrients indians are deficient in

• Dry Skin and Dry Hands

Dry hands and skin are normal during cold days. Apply a moisturizer, drink enough water, and consume sufficient vitamins. However, if the dryness persists, consult a dermatologist. Dry skin could be a sign of hypothyroidism and diabetes. 

Signs:

• Flaky, rough, or itchy skin.
• Hands feel tight and irritated.
• Increased sensitivity to weather changes.

Causes:

• Cold weather and low humidity.
• Frequent washing with harsh soaps.
• Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
• Nutritional deficiencies.

Possible Deficiency:

• Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.
• Vitamin E deficiency.
• Vitamin A deficiency.

How to Care?

• Use a good-quality moisturizer after washing your hands.
• Wear gloves in cold weather or while doing household chores.
• Include healthy fats like nuts, seeds, and fish in your diet.
• Drink more water to keep your skin hydrated.
• Get a thyroid profile test and HbA1c test done with Redcliffe Labs to ensure you know your healthy levels and, if abnormal, start treatment early.

•  Dry Heels

Vitamin E and A deficiency can make your heels extremely dry and cracked, indicating a fungal infection. Proper foot care includes wearing the right footwear, covering the heels, and applying creams. Severely cracked heels may indicate diabetes or fungal infections. Consult your doctor if you notice persistent pain, swelling, pus, roughness, and dryness. 

Signs:

• Cracked or peeling skin on the heels.
• Pain or discomfort while walking.
• Deep fissures that may bleed.

Causes:

• Standing for long hours.
• Wearing open-back footwear.
• Lack of proper foot hygiene.
• Nutritional deficiencies.

Possible Deficiency:

• Vitamin E and A deficiency.
• Omega-3 deficiency.
• Zinc deficiency.

How to Care?

• Soak your feet in warm water and exfoliate regularly.
• Apply a thick foot cream or petroleum jelly before bedtime.
• Wear comfortable, closed shoes with proper arch support.
• Increase intake of Vitamin E and A-rich foods like carrots and sweet potatoes.
• Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
• Consult your doctor and get a Vitamin Profile Comprehensive package to determine if you have any essential vitamin deficiency. 

Final Thoughts

Your body has known something is off balance. If you notice these changes, don't ignore them. Regularly testing yourself for nutritional deficiencies, improving your skincare routine, and seeking medical advice when necessary can help prevent bigger health problems. Stay aware, eat healthily, and care for your body—it's your only one!