Common Health Questions You May Be Too Embarrassed To Ask

When it comes to our bodies, there are some things that probably shouldn’t be discussed in polite company or at a dinner party. These topics include conditions many of us are all too familiar with:  passing gas, bad breath, smelly armpits and similar uncomfortable problems. But when it comes to your health, you shouldn’t be embarrassed to discuss these topics—or anything, really— with your doctor.  If you are having a health problem that makes you blush, there’s no reason to be bashful when speaking with your health care provider. Most likely this is not the first time your physician has been asked a similar question!

Following are some common embarrassing health questions and some possible answers. Just remember, these are only possible answers. If you need an accurate diagnosis, check with your doctor.

WHY DO I SWEAT MORE THAN NORMAL?

First, keep in mind that some people just naturally tend to sweat more than others. After all, there are more than two million sweat glands in the human body.  It’s not unusual to sweat a lot during exercise, under stress, or during hot weather. However, if you are sweating so profusely that it is interfering with your everyday life, you may have a condition called hyperhidrosis. Second, remember that the main difference between hyperhidrosis and “normal” sweating is that hyperhidrosis is unpredictable and may even occur without exercise or any “prompt.”  Hyperhidrosis can also cause you to sweat during cold weather.

While hyperhidrosis tends to run in families, it can be the result of other medical conditions such as menopause or hyperthyroidism. It may also be associated with more serious illnesses, such as cancer, tuberculosis, or even heart disease. Not only can your doctor help determine if your hyperhidrosis is a part of another medical condition, but he or she can also direct you to resources to help you manage your symptoms so you can be more comfortable.

WHY DOES MY BOTTOM ITCH SO MUCH?

This is an extremely common problem. In general, anal itching can be caused by several things including sexually transmitted diseases or parasites such as pinworms (which are more common in children). Often, anal itching—called pruritus ani— is caused by something as simple as spicy foods, scented soap, caffeine or alcohol.  Sometimes, physicians aren’t sure what caused the anal itching.  Anal itching generally can be treated at home by gently cleaning—not scrubbing—the area.  Over-the-counter creams can help. If anal itching continues, consider changing your diet by eliminating spicy foods and cutting back on caffeine and alcohol. However, if you develop a rash, bleeding, discharge from the anus, or a fever, call your doctor.

MY STOMACH GROWLS LOUDLY. WHY IS THAT?

Your stomach may gurgle for many reasons—and not all of them are related to food. While your stomach my growl out of hunger, these sounds may also be caused by indigestion or other conditions such as celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is common, affecting 1 in 5 Americans. Often, IBS causes aches, bloating, abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. If the growling is accompanied by pain, diarrhea or constipation, visit your doctor.

There’s no reason to be embarrassed to ask your doctor about what is bothering you. Chances are, your problem is more common than you realize, and your physician has likely heard similar questions. Don’t let embarrassment keep you from obtaining important health information from a reliable source. Remember, although there is a lot of health information available on the internet, the computer is no substitute for a physician who understands your medical history. A physician will also be able to evaluate your health risks and provide a plan to help you live a healthier lifestyle.