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What is a Symptom of a Disease?

Published in Health and Medicine 2 mins read

A symptom is a change in your body's normal function that you notice and can describe. It's a sign that something is wrong. Think of it as your body's way of telling you it needs attention.

Here's the key difference between a symptom and a sign:

  • Symptom: Something you feel or experience. Examples include: headache, fever, cough, fatigue, nausea.
  • Sign: Something a doctor can observe or measure. Examples include: rash, swollen lymph nodes, elevated blood pressure.

Symptoms can vary widely in severity and duration. Some may be mild and short-lived, while others can be severe and persistent. The type and pattern of symptoms can help doctors diagnose the underlying disease.

Here are some examples of symptoms:

  • Pain: Aching, throbbing, sharp, dull, burning, etc.
  • Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy.
  • Fever: Elevated body temperature.
  • Cough: A forceful expulsion of air from the lungs.
  • Diarrhea: Loose, watery stools.
  • Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach.
  • Vomiting: Forcing up the contents of your stomach.
  • Skin changes: Rash, itching, redness, dryness, etc.
  • Breathing problems: Shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness.
  • Headache: Pain in the head.

It's important to note that:

  • Symptoms can be caused by many different things, not just diseases.
  • Sometimes, a disease may not have any noticeable symptoms.
  • Symptoms can also be caused by side effects of medications or treatments.

If you're experiencing any concerning symptoms, it's important to see a doctor. They can help determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment.


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