So many of us have been brought up in a culture and society that tells us that we need to ‘tough it out’ or certain discomforts are just a part of living as a woman. While some signs and symptoms are prevalent, they are not ‘normal’ or healthy. It is important to recognize the distinction between normal and unhealthy behavior, even if many people are experiencing similar issues. Normalizing these genuine health red flags can delay the diagnosis and treatment of legitimate health concerns. Here are nine health red flags we normalize too often.
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Period Pain: When Cramps Aren’t “Just Cramps”
Women are used to the uncomfortable pain that comes with cramps, but when it becomes debilitating, that is not normal. If you are one of those people who have to adjust their plans around their cramps, it is a sign that something may be more severe. Severe cramping could signal endometriosis, adenomyosis, or fibroids. These conditions affect millions of women but often take years to diagnose because symptoms are dismissed as “normal periods. Your period should not affect your daily life. If you are experiencing debilitating symptoms, this is a health red flag, and it may be time to check in with your gynecologist.
Persistent Fatigue
Persistent exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest isn’t something to be proud of; it is a health red flag. We often glamorize being busy and working hard, but take a moment to check in with yourself if you never feel like you can get enough rest. Chronic fatigue could signal thyroid disorders, anemia, sleep apnea, or autoimmune conditions—all of which affect women disproportionately and require the help of a professional.
Digestive Issues
We often chalk up persistent digestive issues to having a sensitive stomach, but chances are, it could be so much more. You should always listen to your body when it gives you signals, such as a sensitive stomach, which is a health red flag. If you have constant bloating, constipation, or irregular bowel movements, these are not symptoms you should live with. These symptoms could be a signal for a bigger issue like IBS, SIBO, celiac disease, or even endometriosis affecting the bowels. Don’t continue to normalize these behaviors before seeking help.
Brain Fog and Memory Issues
Do you find that you have difficulty concentrating, have forgetfulness, and mental haziness? This is not something that we should accept with aging, “mom brain”, or busyness; it is a health red flag. These cognitive symptoms can signal hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, or even autoimmune conditions that affect brain function. Don’t let these issues linger on; if they are persistent, it could lead to more permanent issues if left untreated.
Mood Changes
Mood changes happen because of hormonal changes in our bodies; this is a normal occurrence. It becomes a health red flag when there is persistent anxiety, depression, or mood swings. You can’t dismiss the persistence as just monthly hormonal issues. Check in with yourself and assess if these mood changes are altering your daily life. Persistent mood issues could indicate PMDD, thyroid dysfunction, or mental health conditions that deserve treatment from a health professional.
Sleep Disturbances
We all deal with sleep disturbances periodically, which is normal. If you find you have difficulty sleeping regularly, this is a health red flag. Sleep disruptions may mean hormonal imbalances, sleep apnea (which is underdiagnosed in women), or other health conditions that affect quality of life. Our brains are like computers; if we do not power them down and allow them to properly rest, we will become dysfunctional. Don’t be afraid to seek help for something that may seem minor; we all deserve a good night’s rest.
Headaches and Migraines
You should always take headaches and migraines as a signal that something is wrong. Regular headaches may be common, but they are a health red flag. Pain is our body’s signal that something needs attention, and consistent headaches and migraines can be debilitating to your daily life. It may signal dehydration, a lack of food, strain in another area of the body, or neurological conditions that require assessment. Don’t let these types of issues linger; getting them early may save your life.
Weight Changes
Minor weight fluctuations are normal, depending on your daily water intake, sodium intake, and food consumption. It becomes a health red flag if it is drastic in a short period of time. Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight despite healthy habits could be a sign of something bigger. Thyroid disorders, PCOS, insulin resistance, or medication side effects are all things to consider when thinking about sudden weight changes. Do not simply accept that your weight changes are a result of a lack of willpower or an increased metabolism. Always consult a health professional to ensure you are on the right path.
Hair Loss and Skin Changes
When I turned 35, my skin completely changed. I never experienced acne in my life, and then I looked like a teenager going through puberty. If you find that you are experiencing thinning hair, adult acne, or other skin changes, these are not just external concerns; they are health red flags. Take this as your body’s signal that something is going on internally, like hormonal imbalances, nutrition concerns, or autoimmune disease. Don’t just address the issue by trying over-the-counter things; get the right diagnosis from a doctor who specializes in dermatological issues.
How to advocate for yourself
- Document your symptoms
- Ask questions during your healthcare visit, even if they seem silly.
- Seek a second opinion if you are not satisfied with he answer.
- Find a specialist to speak to about your specific concern.
- Never give up on finding a solution.
The first step to better health is recognizing the difference between what is common and what is a health red flag. Your body’s signals deserve attention, not normalization. Being proactive about investigating persistent symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis, more effective treatment, and a better quality of life.
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