Top 10 Early Symptoms Women Should Never Ignore

Top 10 Early Symptoms Women Should Never Ignore

These symptoms do not always mean something serious; but if you notice them, especially if they are new, persistent, or worsening, it is wise to get them checked. Early detection can often save lives or reduce the severity of treatment needed.

Here are 10 symptoms women should never ignore.

1. Chest pain or discomfort, especially with other signs

• A feeling of pressure, tightness, squeezing or heaviness in your chest.
• Pain spreading to shoulders, arms (often left arm), neck, jaw, back or stomach.
• Shortness of breath, sweating, feeling nauseous or light-headed.

Why it matters: These are key early signs of a heart attack, and in women symptoms can sometimes be less ‘classic’ than simply severe chest pain. Acting fast can make a big difference.

2. Persistent tiredness / fatigue for no obvious reason

• Feeling constantly exhausted even after rest.
• Tiredness that impacts daily routine and doesn’t go away.

Why it matters: This can be a symptom of many things: anaemia, thyroid problems, depression, infections, or early cancer. NHS’s ‘Help Us, Help You’ campaign lists persistent fatigue among signs to check with your GP.

3. Unexplained weight loss

• Losing weight without trying (no change in diet or exercise)

Why it matters: Can be an early warning of cancers, or conditions like thyroid disease or digestive disorders.

4. Changes in your breasts

• New lumps; changes in size, shape, or feel.
• Discharge from the nipple that’s unusual, especially if bloody.
• Skin changes: dimpling, redness, rash that doesn’t go away.

Why it matters: Early breast changes may be an early sign of breast cancer. Regular self-awareness helps you notice what is not normal for you.

5. Abdominal bloating or distention

• Feeling bloated frequently, without obvious cause.
• Feeling full quickly, frequent urination, or discomfort in the pelvic area.

Why it matters: These are known early warning signs of ovarian cancer. The NICE guideline for ovarian cancer emphasises persistent abdominal bloating, especially when accompanied by other symptoms.

6. Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge

• Bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause.
• Vaginal discharge that is unusual in colour, smell or consistency.
• Pain during sex.

Why it matters: These can be symptoms of cervical, uterine (womb) cancer or other gynaecological issues. Early detection through smear tests and prompt GP visits are essential.

7. Persistent cough or hoarseness

• Cough that lasts 3 weeks or more.
• Voice changes or persistent hoarseness.

Why it matters: Could be early signs of lung cancer or throat conditions. NHS cancer symptom checkers include persistent cough or changes in voice.

8. Unusual bleeding (from anywhere)

• Blood in urine.
• Blood in stool.
• Bleeding when coughing, or any persistent bleeding that isn’t clearly explained.

Why it matters: Blood outside menstrual periods or obvious injuries can be a sign of serious issues (e.g. bladder, bowel, kidney cancer, infections). It’s always worth getting checked.

9. Persistent pain or discomfort

• New, unexplained pain anywhere in the body.
• Pelvic or abdominal pain that does not improve.

Why it matters: While many pains are benign, persistent or worsening pain may be a warning sign of disease or cancer. Early evaluation helps.

10. Shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting

• Breathlessness during activity, or when at rest.
• Feeling light-headed, dizzy, or feeling like you might pass out.

Why it matters: These could be signs of heart disease, lung disease, low oxygen levels, or something more serious like a pulmonary embolism. Such symptoms, especially combined with chest discomfort, must not be ignored.