Rebecca Rickard, D.O.
UPMC Primary Care

Ghosts, goblins, and things that go bump in the night might make your heart race this Halloween, but sometimes it is our own bodies sending the scariest signals. While many health concerns turn out to be minor, some symptoms can be signs of something much more serious. Knowing when to see a doctor could make all the difference.

Chest Pain or Shortness of Breath

If you feel pressure, tightness, or pain in your chest, especially if it spreads to your arm, neck, or jaw, it is time to call for help. These can be warning signs of a heart attack or another serious heart or lung issue. Shortness of breath that comes suddenly, even without chest pain, should also be evaluated right away. Do not brush it off as just a trick of the season; it could be your body’s way of sounding the alarm.

Sudden or Severe Headache

A sudden, intense headache that feels like the “worst of your life” can indicate something serious such as a migraine, aneurysm, or stroke. Seek medical attention if a headache comes on abruptly or is accompanied by vision changes, dizziness, or weakness on one side of your body. Not all headaches are frightening, but when one seems unusual, it is best to get checked out.

Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue

If you are losing weight without trying or feel constantly drained no matter how much rest you get, your body may be signaling an underlying issue such as thyroid problems, diabetes, infection, or even cancer. These symptoms can creep up quietly but ignoring them can lead to bigger scares later.

Persistent Cough or Voice Changes

A cough that lingers for weeks, blood in your phlegm, or a hoarse voice that will not go away could indicate an infection or, in some cases, lung or throat cancer. If your symptoms last longer than three weeks or you notice they are getting worse, it is time to call your primary care provider.

Numbness, Weakness, or Slurred Speech

If you suddenly cannot move one side of your body, your face droops, or your speech becomes slurred, call 911 right away. These are classic signs of a stroke, and every minute counts. Quick action can mean the difference between full recovery and lasting damage.

Do Not Let Fear Keep You Away

The scariest thing you can do is ignore your symptoms. Regular checkups with your primary care provider help catch problems early, before they turn truly frightening.

Rebecca Rickard, D.O. is with UPMC Primary Care and sees patients at UPMC Wellsboro Office of Internal Medicine, 103 West Avenue, Suite 203, Wellsboro. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Rickard, call 570-724-3744. For more information, visit UPMC.com/PrimaryCareNCPA.