5 Health Symptoms to Watch Out for in Your Family

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Now that we're attempting to return to "normal" after over two years of living in a pandemic, you may still be a little nervous as your family gets used to attending work and school again. When you know which symptoms to look out for in your loved ones, you can treat their ailments promptly and eliminate a health condition before it worsens. Here are five health symptoms you should watch out for in your family.

Social Withdrawal

If you notice that your spouse, children, or siblings are not as social as they once were, this could be a sign of a mental health issue. We've all had to change many of our social habits in the last few years, but some individuals are having a hard time assimilating back into social settings without feeling anxious or frustrated. If you see that your family member doesn't want to engage with people or in activities that they normally enjoy, this could be a sign of depression. Depression can be seasonal but can also be hereditary or develop due to a traumatic event. Encouraging your loved one to talk through their feelings can let you know if your family member can benefit from depression treatment.

Changes in Sleeping/Eating Habits

Mental Health America asserts that changes in eating and sleeping habits indicate a change in your family's health as well. Significant changes in these habits could be an indication of anxiety. An increase or appetite and the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep can also occur because of hormonal changes. If your relative is near puberty or menopause, you can help them combat these symptoms with a healthy diet filled with fresh fruits and veggies and a workout program that requires physical activity for at least 30 minutes three times a week.

Lethargy/Fatigue

Since we've all gotten used to being at home more than usual, some people have developed the habit of sleeping whenever they are bored or want to work through stress in a healthy way. However, excessive fatigue or lethargy can often be a sign of a health issue. Conditions like anemia and fibromyalgia are characterized by very low energy and the desire to sleep throughout the day. A high-quality multivitamin and a well-rounded diet can supply the body with essential nutrients such as iron and calcium that will supply the body with more energy while cleansing the blood and strengthening the bones.

Severe Coughing/Wheezing

Wheezing and heavy coughing are warning signs that you may need to give your family member a breathing treatment or give them medication from an inhaler. Individuals who suffer from allergies and asthma often experience these symptoms, but if you live in a heavily populated metropolitan area, coughing and wheezing could be symptoms of asbestos. For instance, symptoms of asbestos in New York are common among people who may have worked in factories in the past. Or people who live in public housing where certain building materials, such as vermiculite or talc, were used to construct the floor, walls, and ceilings. The building materials that contain asbestos and are exported to the US come primarily from Kazakhstan, China, and Russia.

In addition to wheezing and coughing, individuals with asbestos will also have difficulty swallowing, a hoarse voice, and swelling in the neck and face. Significant weight loss and blood in the mucus are common symptoms as well. If you and your family live in an older home or apartment building, the higher the chances are that you'll be exposed to asbestos. If you see signs of sickness, take your relative to the doctor right away.

Excessive Substance Use

According to Mental Health America, people have started drinking and smoking more since the pandemic. This is understandable since this has been a time of significant changes, extreme uncertainty, and unimaginable stress for families due to the cost of caring for or burying a loved one with COVID-19. While enjoying a cocktail with dinner every now and then is not a sign of a problem, if you see that your loved one won't attend social events or go to work without using substances first, this could be a sign of substance abuse, which should be treated right away.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the symptoms you should look out for to ensure that your family stays healthy. Keep your relatives healthy by boosting their immune system with healthy foods and beverages that can keep viruses and toxic buildup away. You should seek medical attention any time a loved one is short of breath or complains of intense pain. Keep these tips in mind to ensure that every member of your household can take the necessary steps to improve their health and overall well-being.