Do you know when to go to the doctor? Even though this seems like a simple question, plenty of people either don’t really know when a health problem warrants a visit to the doctor—or they simply put it off. They think their health concerns are trivial…or they tell themselves they don’t have time to go. But that can be a mistake. Seemingly trivial complaints that do require medical evaluation…
Constipation. Because millions of Americans suffer from constipation, we often consider it an insignificant condition. However, constipation can indicate something more serious than a missed bowel movement. On many occasions, a patient’s report of constipation has been my only clue to give an exam or order tests that led to a diagnosis of colon cancer, rectal prolapse, anal fissure, gallbladder disease or hypothyroidism. If you fail to have a daily bowel movement for three to four consecutive days, see your doctor for an evaluation before you use laxatives or fiber formulas to treat your condition.
Fatigue. This is tricky because everyone feels tired some of the time. Report fatigue to your doctor when you notice a change in your energy level or a significant difference in your energy compared with that of similarly aged peers of your gender. Common causes of fatigue include anemia…thyroid, adrenal or reproductive hormone disorders…cancer…prescription drug overdose…insomnia…poor diet…and inadequate or excessive exercise. If everything checks out well with your doctor, consider adding a vitamin B-complex (with at least 75 mg of B-5 and 800 mcg of B-12) as well as 1,000 mg of vitamin C to your daily regimen. This simple protocol can pep up a tired but otherwise healthy body.
Indigestion. Inflammation, stomach ulcers and cancers of the liver, pancreas, stomach and digestive tract often show up as vague, dull painful indigestion. If you have abdominal pain throughout the day or find yourself reaching for an antacid after most meals, see your doctor. If your physician doesn’t find any illness, consider botanical remedies. Pancreatic enzyme tablets made from pineapple and papaya are available at natural-food stores and promote digestion by breaking food into smaller molecules. Take the dosage found on the label at the end of each meal. A cup of peppermint or chamomile tea will also help digestion.
Nosebleeds. Though most often associated with dry air, colds, allergies or a nose injury, some nosebleeds, particularly in older adults, signal hypertension, leukemia, a bleeding disorder or heart disease. If you get nosebleeds once a month or more, see your doctor. If he/she doesn’t find an underlying condition, using homeopathic Phosphorus 30C (two pellets under the tongue) will reduce the bleeding time associated with most nosebleeds. If the bleeding doesn’t stop within 15 minutes, take a second dose. Also: Pinch your nostrils closed and lean forward (for example, while seated, hold your head roughly at the level of your waist) for about 10 minutes to help stop a nosebleed. Leaning your head backward may cause you to swallow blood.
Source: Jamison Starbuck, ND, is a naturopathic physician in family practice and a guest lecturer at the University of Montana, both in Missoula. She is past president of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and a contributing editor to The Alternative Advisor: The Complete Guide to Natural Therapies and Alternative Treatments (Time Life).
