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We all have those little niggles that we put up with, or an ache that we put down to getting older. However, there are some pains or other symptoms that you really should make an appointment and get checked out.

1. Pains in your legs that don't go away

What it could be: Cramp after exercise or while asleep is pretty common. But recurring or severe leg pains and cramps can be due to a blood clot or heart and circulation problems.
What it probably is: It could also be a relatively harmless, but uncomfortable condition called restless leg syndrome. It's always safest to get the right diagnosis.

2. Have you noticed any lumps or bumps you didn't have before?

What it could be: Finding a lump under your skin can be frightening and it's often tempting to ignore it in the hope it goes away, but even pain-free lumps can be cancerous.
What it probably is: Nine out of 10 are harmless cysts, boils, warts or a fatty growth called a lipoma, but it's just better to be safe than sorry.

3. If you're losing weight and never feel hungry

What it could be: If you suddenly find your weight dropping for no reason, it could be a sign of health issues including thyroid problems or a digestive complaint. If you've lost 10% of your body weight in six months, go to the doctors for further investigation.
What it probably is: The chances are you've been watching what you eat and have started doing more exercise. Don't complain!

4. When you have unexpected bleeding

What it could be: Bleeding should always be checked out, whether it's blood in your stools - which often makes them appear black or tar-like - or blood coughed up with phlegm. It's often an early sign of cancer. Heavy nosebleeds that last more than 20 minutes are another sign you shouldn't ignore as is bleeding in between periods of from your vagina after sex - this could be something like pelvic inflammatory disease.
What it probably is: Unless you remember cutting yourself on something, bleeding of any sort that you can't explain should be examined.

5. If you're permanently tired and run down

What it could be: If you feel desperately tired for more than a week, it could be an indicator that you have emotional problems you're not coping with or are depressed. Or you could have a physical problem: anything from a sleep disorder like sleep apnoea, to diabetes, ME, or even cancer. Your GP may recommend a blood test to check for other causes.
What it probably is: One in five of us complain of regular tiredness - the important thing to watch out for is if there's no obvious cause.

- Symptoms you shouldn't ignore: 6-10

More help and advice

- What to do if you can't see a doctor
- Old wives' tales: fact or fiction

By Rob Mansfield

• Next: 10 symptoms you should NEVER ignore? - Part 2

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