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Published on: Apr 04, 2020
1 minute read
By: Dr Vibhash Mishra

Corona Virus (COVID-19) Being Responsible

The world is in a state of panic with fear of Corona and perhaps rightly so. Official, semi-official and unofficial guidances are pouring in from all possible sources. Social media has been promoting the use of masks only for sufferers of Corona infection and those who are having symptoms of cough and fever. Some experts have gone to the extent of suggesting that the use of mask for members of the general public may even be harmful. It may promote a sense of complacency among people, a false sense of safety leading to negligence of other precautions. Masks may be so ill-fitting that the user has to touch it frequently to adjust it, which may lead to transmission of infection. The virus is supposed to be transmitted by droplets coughed out by the sufferers. The purpose of the mask used by these people is to stop passing on the droplets to others. While this notion seems to make sense, it may not be entirely true and the use of masks by people at large may still have some protective value. There may be people who are infected and not aware of it. Avoiding relatively close contact with such people at public places may not be easy in populous countries which are not locked down completely yet. Use of mask in that situation may provide some protection at least. After all the infected droplets need to be inhaled to cause further infection and a mask over the mouth and nostrils will prevent the inhalation to some extent. It seems, therefore, that discouraging people from using masks may be an irresponsible act. What should be emphasized instead is that using a mask is not the end of your responsibility towards protecting yourself and others. Other precautions are equally important. Following are a few examples:
1. If you have cough and/or fever, confine yourself indoors and avoid coming in contact with people, specially children, elderly and those with chronic illnesses.
2. Wash your hands well with soap and water frequently and certainly after touching anyone or anything.
3. Avoid touching your face and eyes unnecessarily.
4. Do not cough in the open or on your hands. Use a tissue or your sleeve instead. Bin the tissue immediately.
5. Avoid unnecessary travels.
6. Avoid public gatherings.
7. If you suspect you may be infected with Corona, do not use antibiotics, they will not be effective.
8. When interacting with strangers or those with cough/fever, stand at least three steps away.

Dr Vibhash Mishra, London, UK, Chief Medical Officer, Second Medic

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Early Warning Signs of Serious Health Problems You Should Never Ignore

Many serious illnesses do not appear suddenly. They often begin with subtle symptoms that are easy to dismiss. Understanding the early warning signs of serious health problems is essential for timely diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.

According to the World Health Organization and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), early detection significantly reduces mortality from non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Unfortunately, many individuals delay medical consultation, assuming symptoms will resolve on their own.

Recognising warning signals early can save lives.

Why Early Detection Matters

Early diagnosis:

improves treatment success
reduces complications
lowers healthcare costs
increases survival rates

Preventive healthcare is more effective than emergency treatment.

1. Persistent Chest Pain

Chest discomfort may indicate:

heart disease
angina
lung infection
acid reflux

Sudden or recurring chest pain requires immediate medical attention.

Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death in India, according to ICMR data.

2. Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without dieting or increased activity may signal:

thyroid disorders
diabetes
chronic infections
cancer

Unintentional weight loss should always be evaluated.

3. Chronic Fatigue

Persistent tiredness that does not improve with rest can indicate:

anemia
vitamin deficiencies
sleep disorders
heart problems
thyroid imbalance

Fatigue is often underestimated.

4. Frequent Headaches

Severe or recurring headaches may signal:

hypertension
migraine
neurological issues
brain infection

Sudden, intense headaches require urgent care.

5. Shortness of Breath

Difficulty breathing may indicate:

asthma
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
heart disease
anemia

Breathing issues should never be ignored.

6. Persistent Fever

Fever lasting more than a few days may indicate:

infection
tuberculosis
autoimmune disease

India continues to report high infectious disease burdens.

7. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits

Symptoms such as:

persistent constipation
blood in stool
difficulty urinating

may signal digestive or urinary disorders.

8. Swelling in Limbs or Face

Swelling may indicate:

kidney problems
heart failure
liver disease

Monitoring fluid retention is important.

9. Yellowing of Eyes or Skin

Jaundice indicates:

liver dysfunction
hepatitis
bile duct obstruction

Immediate evaluation is necessary.

10. Persistent Cough

A cough lasting more than three weeks may suggest:

tuberculosis
lung infection
chronic respiratory disease

Early diagnosis improves outcomes.

Mental Health Warning Signs

Emotional symptoms such as:

persistent sadness
loss of interest
severe anxiety

may indicate depression or anxiety disorders.

Mental health requires equal attention.

When to Consult a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

symptoms persist
pain intensifies
new symptoms develop
daily activities are affected

Timely consultation prevents complications.

Role of Preventive Health Checkups

Regular screening includes:

blood pressure monitoring
blood sugar testing
lipid profile
liver and kidney function tests

NFHS-5 data highlights the increasing burden of lifestyle diseases in India, reinforcing the importance of preventive care.

High-Risk Groups

Individuals at higher risk include:

those with family history of chronic disease
smokers
individuals with sedentary lifestyle
adults over 40

Proactive screening is essential.

Importance of Listening to Your Body

The body often provides early signals before major illness develops. Ignoring these signals delays treatment and increases risk.

Health awareness empowers timely action.

Technology and Early Detection

Digital health platforms and teleconsultations allow:

early symptom discussion
quick medical advice
faster referrals

Accessibility improves health outcomes.

Conclusion

Recognising early warning signs of serious health problems is one of the most powerful steps toward preventive healthcare. Persistent chest pain, unexplained weight loss, chronic fatigue and breathing difficulties should never be ignored. Early detection saves lives, reduces complications and ensures better recovery outcomes. Regular health checkups and timely medical consultation remain the foundation of long-term wellbeing.

Taking action at the first sign of concern can make the difference between simple treatment and serious complications.

References

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Non-Communicable Disease Reports
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Adult Health Indicators
World Health Organization (WHO) – Early Detection and Screening Guidelines
NITI Aayog – Preventive Healthcare Strategy Reports
Lancet – Chronic Disease and Early Diagnosis Research

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