What are the Symptoms of Non Communicable Diseases?
October 3, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are typically chronic conditions that cannot be transmitted from person to person. These diseases often develop over a long period and are influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, behavioral, and socio-economic factors. Common symptoms of various non-communicable diseases may include:
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension):
- Persistent high blood pressure, which may lead to headaches, blurred vision, fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
- Type 2 Diabetes:
- Excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, slow wound healing, and unexplained weight loss.
- Heart Disease:
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina), shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, fatigue, weakness, and dizziness.
- Stroke:
- Sudden onset of weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg (usually on one side), difficulty speaking, severe headache, and trouble with balance or coordination.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases (e.g., Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – COPD):
- Chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, increased mucus production, and chest tightness.
- Cancer:
- Symptoms vary depending on the type and stage of cancer but may include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, pain, skin changes, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and unusual bleeding or discharge.
- Obesity:
- Excessive body weight, especially around the waist, often accompanied by joint pain, fatigue, and increased risk of other health issues.
- Chronic Kidney Disease:
- Fatigue, weakness, difficulty concentrating, loss of appetite, swelling in the legs and ankles, and frequent urination, especially at night.
- Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease:
- Memory loss, confusion, difficulty completing familiar tasks, challenges in planning and organizing, and personality or behavior changes.
- Osteoporosis:
- Fragile bones prone to fractures, particularly in the hips, spine, and wrists.
- Dental Diseases (e.g., Periodontal Disease):
- Toothache, gum swelling, bleeding gums, bad breath, and tooth sensitivity.
- Mental Health Disorders (e.g., Depression, Anxiety):
- Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, irritability, changes in sleep patterns, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty concentrating.
- Hearing Loss:
- Difficulty hearing conversations, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and feeling that others are mumbling.
Regular medical check-ups and screenings, along with a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, limited alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco use, can help prevent or manage these non-communicable diseases. If you experience any concerning symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice for proper evaluation and management.