Chapter 2: Skin, Bleeding, and Other Changes That Matter
The skin can sometimes provide valuable clues about overall health. New moles, changes in existing moles, unusual sores that do not heal, or persistent skin discoloration should be examined by a healthcare provider.
Another warning sign involves unexplained bleeding. This may include bleeding between menstrual periods, after menopause, or from other parts of the body without a clear reason. Persistent abnormal bleeding always deserves medical attention.
Women should also be aware of changes in bowel or bladder habits. Frequent urination, blood in the urine, ongoing constipation, chronic diarrhea, or unexplained changes in normal patterns can sometimes indicate medical conditions that require evaluation.
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Another commonly overlooked symptom is prolonged fatigue that does not improve with rest. While busy schedules often cause tiredness, extreme or persistent exhaustion may sometimes signal an underlying problem.
Health professionals stress that a single symptom rarely provides a diagnosis. Instead, the combination of persistent changes, duration, and medical evaluation helps determine whether further testing is needed.