Early checks can make difference

As suggested by Dr Jonathan Fox of the Royal New Zealand College of GPs, listening to the messages your body is sending can be the key to heading off a serious medical problem before it gets nasty.

Usually there are clear warning signs about when things are about to go wrong.

Carrying out a few simple do-it-yourself health checks on a monthly basis can make all the difference when it comes to catching diseases out early. It pays to be vigilant as many preventable diseases such as skin cancer can be treated effectively if caught at an early stage.

EYES

Check for anaemia by pulling down your lower lid. It should be pinky red. If it is pale, have a check-up.

If the whites of your eyes are a yellowish colour - you may have a liver problem.

Pupils should be crystal clear - clouding may indicate the early signs of a cataract.

Tiny yellow pimples under the skin on the upper eyelids can denote build-up of cholesterol.

MOUTH

Check for persistent white patches or sore red areas on the tongue that fail to heal within three weeks. Oral cancer is on the increase, especially among those who smoke or drink heavily.

Check for bleeding or swollen gums, which can be an early warning sign of gum disease or gingivitis - a build-up of plaque causing infection between the gum and the tooth. If untreated, gingivitis can lead to mouth abscesses and destroy fibres that secure teeth to gums.

Frequent mouth ulcers also have links to diabetes, anaemia, and vitamin C deficiency.

SKIN

The sooner melanoma is detected the better. Warning signs to look out for include changes in the colour and texture of skin, especially on moles and freckles, or the appearance of new moles. If any start to get darker, change shape, or bleed or itch - see a doctor.

FINGERNAILS

Flaky, or split nails can be a sign of nutritional deficiencies, especially lack of calcium. Splitting nails may denote a lack of essential fatty acids, which help protect against heart disease and arthritis, while white patches often indicate a zinc deficiency.

FEET

Cold feet and dry skin suggest poor circulation, while hot sweaty feet can indicate glandular imbalance. Athlete's foot and fungal growths under toenails are often a sign of Candida Albicans, a yeast growth in the gut which can weaken the immune system. Diabetics tend to have circulation problems in their toes and should check their feet regularly.

TESTICLES

Men should examine their testicles to establish what is normal for them. Check monthly for rubbery lumps and bumps. Prostate cancer symptoms include frequent night-time urination, and a weak flow of urine which may also contain blood. If in doubt, have it checked out for your peace of mind.

BOWELS

Check for any changes in toilet habits - and go to the doctor if you are constipated or have diarrhoea for more than two weeks. Signs of bleeding or a black tarry substance in stools may be a sign of something a bit more serious. Healthy stools should be smooth, and easy to pass.

BREASTS

Although research results are not conclusive, most doctors suggest women carry out a breast check at least once a month, mid menstrual cycle. Using the tips of your fingers, feel for unusual lumps or thickening.

Further reading:
nzherald.co.nz/health