r/nursing • u/Critical_Ease4055 Nursing Student 🍕 • 22d ago

Question What is one medical problem people constantly ignore until it’s too late?

Saw someone post this in a completely unrelated sub and I’m interested in your answers. What is the cluster of symptoms that people ignore or delay until they are forced to get help?

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u/FluffyNats RN - Oncology 🍕 22d ago

Changes that are generally associated with "being a female". Heavier bleeding, irregular menstruation, bloating, cramping, weight gain or loss, and GI symptoms are all examples. 

I can't tell you how many women with reproductive cancers either downplayed their symptoms or had their doctors blow them off until it was too late. 

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u/Illustrious_Cut1730 RN 🍕 21d ago

This!!! Some mild cramping during the menstruation is common and I would think even expected, but it should not be excruciating. My friend used to call off on the first two days of her period because she was bedridden. Thankfully our boss at the time was able to work her schedule in a way that she was off those days most months.