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7 Common Reasons People Visit Their GP (and What to Know)

A visit to your GP is often the first step in understanding and managing health concerns. While some appointments are for routine check-ups, others are prompted by specific symptoms or worries. This guide explores some of the most common reasons people book a GP appointment and what you should know about each one.

1. Persistent Coughs and Respiratory Issues

One of the leading reasons people see their GP is a nagging cough or breathing difficulties. It’s easy to shrug off a cough as a passing annoyance, but if it lingers for more than a few weeks or comes with other symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain, it’s worth getting checked out.

Your GP might investigate conditions like asthma, bronchitis, or even infections like pneumonia. If you’ve noticed any other warning signs, such as coughing up blood or unexplained weight loss, these should be mentioned during your appointment.

When to book:

  • A cough lasting longer than three weeks
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • High fever accompanying the cough

2. Unexplained Pain

Pain that doesn’t seem to have an obvious cause can understandably cause concern, and is one of the most common reasons people head to Sloane Street Surgery. Whether it’s a sharp pain in your abdomen or ongoing discomfort in your joints, your GP can help identify the underlying issue.

For example, abdominal pain might point to digestive conditions, while joint pain could be related to arthritis or inflammation. Keeping track of when the pain started, how often it occurs, and any other accompanying symptoms will help your doctor narrow things down.

Common examples:

  • Headaches or migraines that are increasing in frequency
  • Chest pain unrelated to exertion
  • Chronic back or joint pain

3. Skin Problems

Skin concerns, from rashes to moles, are another common reason people seek medical advice. Whether it’s something as routine as eczema or more serious concerns like checking a mole for signs of skin cancer, your GP can provide guidance.

Many skin conditions can be managed with over-the-counter treatments, but it’s always worth checking if something looks unusual, spreads rapidly, or is causing you significant discomfort.

What to look out for:

  • New or changing moles
  • Persistent rashes or hives
  • Skin that’s dry, itchy, or inflamed despite treatment

4. Digestive Issues

Stomach problems can range from mild and short-lived to severe and chronic. If you’ve been dealing with bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, or stomach pain, it’s a good idea to consult your GP.

These symptoms can be linked to various conditions, including food intolerances, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or infections. In some cases, your GP might recommend further testing to rule out underlying conditions like coeliac disease or Crohn’s disease.

Red flags:

  • Blood in your stool
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Severe or recurrent stomach cramps

5. Mental Health Concerns

It’s not uncommon for people to reach out to their GP for help with mental health challenges. Anxiety, depression, and stress are some of the most reported concerns, and your GP can provide a valuable first step towards support.

From offering a listening ear to recommending therapies or medication, GPs play a key role in managing mental health. Don’t hesitate to discuss your symptoms, even if they feel difficult to articulate.

Signs it’s time to seek help:

  • Feeling persistently low or hopeless
  • Difficulty sleeping due to anxiety or worry
  • Thoughts of self-harm or harming others

6. Fatigue and Low Energy

We all feel tired sometimes, but when exhaustion starts to interfere with daily life, it’s worth investigating. Persistent fatigue could stem from conditions like anaemia, thyroid problems, or chronic fatigue syndrome.

Your GP will typically ask about your lifestyle, sleep patterns, and stress levels to pinpoint possible causes. Blood tests might also be ordered to check for any underlying issues.

Possible related conditions:

  • Iron deficiency
  • Diabetes
  • Sleep apnoea

7. Preventative Health and Check-Ups

Routine check-ups are an essential part of staying on top of your health, even if you feel fine. Many people visit their GP for regular screenings, immunisations, or to manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.

These appointments are a great opportunity to ask questions, update your medical history, and make any necessary lifestyle adjustments to maintain your overall health.

Examples of preventative care:

  • Blood pressure and cholesterol checks
  • Vaccinations
  • Cancer screenings (e.g., cervical smears or bowel screening)

Making the Most of Your Appointment

When you visit your GP, preparation can make a big difference. Before your appointment, jot down your symptoms, including how long they’ve lasted and any patterns you’ve noticed. It’s also helpful to note any medications or treatments you’ve tried.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions during your appointment. If there’s something you don’t understand, ask your GP to explain further or provide written information. This ensures you leave the appointment feeling confident about the next steps.

Prioritising Your Health

Visiting your GP doesn’t just address immediate concerns—it’s a proactive step towards protecting your long-term health. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or dealing with new symptoms, staying on top of your health means fewer worries and better outcomes. So, if you’ve been putting off booking an appointment, consider this your sign to prioritise your well-being. Your health deserves it.

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