6 Taboo Health Issues You Should Tell Your Doctor About

There are some health issues that women may be embarrassed to mention to their doctor or loved ones. However, talking about them keeps them above board and can even help alleviate shyness or fear. Furthermore, if there is something really wrong, speaking up can get you back to health faster and minimize serious health problems later. I recommend telling your health care provider about anything that is bothering you that doesn’t seem normal or doesn’t go away. Check out these commonly avoided “taboo” health issues you should tell your doctor about.

‘Down There’ Issues

Women, especially teens and young adults are often embarrassed or scared to discuss anything that’s going on ‘down there’ whether it’s a urine infection period issues, itching, or other symptoms. Unfortunately, some of these issues can become serious if not treated. However, in some cases, a doctor might not even be needed. Keep in mind that your local pharmacist is also qualified to help with OTC products and mild symptoms that aren’t serious. That said, it’s important to tell your doctor if something doesn’t get better with OTC medicine or other means.

Hearing Loss

Hearing changes can be caused by many things and aren’t necessarily permanent. Younger women might associate the hearing loss with aging and be embarrassed to admit they have had a problem. Hearing loss can also make us feel isolated and as though we can’t keep up with socializing as we once did.

The problem with avoidance is that it could lead to a worse problem later in life. Furthermore, it might be a temporary issue caused by something you’re doing like listening to music too loudly.  No matter what the issue is, it’s best to let a professional assess if you truly have ear damage or hearing loss. From there, you can learn more about hearing aids or anything else you need.

Body Odor

Body odor is often associated with smelly armpits, but it can also be a problem in the anus area, the groin, upper thighs, and feet. You can certainly understand why these issues would be taboo to talk about. Body odor can be embarrassing and cause us not to want to be around others. If you have tried everything topical to end body odor but still suffer, you may have something else going on.

It’s important to tell your doctor about what’s happening in this area as it could be a sign of something internal or serious. For example, people with diabetes can have a strange smell to their urine and sweat. Vaginal odors can be a sign of infection or even cancer.

Body odor can also be caused by food allergies, intolerances, and indulgences. You might try changing your diet as fatty foods, oils, or strong-smelling foods such as garlic, curry, and onions have been known to seep through pores and cause body odor. Check with your health care provider to find out if your diet might be the culprit.

Sweating

Sweating through your clothes can be really embarrassing and can be a social taboo. However, don’t hide it from your doctor. Again, this issue could be a sign that something is amiss in your body. Though some people naturally sweat more, there are some conditions like hyperhidrosis that can be excessive. Additionally, it could also be the culprit behind body odor, as we discussed above.

Itching

Obviously, minor itching can be caused by many things, but anything severe, excessive and ongoing should be discussed with your doctor or dermatologist. I do also recommend checking the ingredients in your washing powder, skincare, shampoo, and other cleaning products. You might be allergic to something you use every day and take for granted. That said, keep an eye on any rashes or irritations that don’t seem normal or don’t go away with changing your products or diet. Tell your doctor as soon as you can if you are concerned.

Excessive Hair Growth

Women find excessive hair growth particularly embarrassing, as it has never been considered beautiful or acceptable in our modern culture. This issue can be caused by genetics, hormones, or even some medications. However, do make sure that your excessive hair growth is normal and isn’t due to anything concerning. Ask your doctor about anything that concerns you. Thankfully, there are many ways to get rid of excessive facial or body hair that aren’t too invasive.