International Day of Action for Women's Health: 7 health red flags women must track 

Causes of hair fall: Unexplained hair loss may be more than stress-related. It’s commonly linked to thyroid disorders or nutritional gaps (Image: Canva)

In the middle of juggling careers, caregiving, and commitments, women’s health often takes a backseat. As a result, many ignore persistent symptoms, attributing them to stress or lifestyle. But some signs are the body’s way of asking for help. Delaying action not only puts your wellbeing at risk but also impacts your family.

"Your health is not optional," says Dr Sahana K P, Consultant - Obstetrics and Gyn aecology, Apollo Hospital, Seshadripuram. “Women often normalise pain, fatigue, and irregular symptoms. This leads to late diagnoses and more complicated outcomes. Listening to your body and seeking timely medical care is not self-indulgence; it’s self-preservation,” she adds.

Whether it’s frequent tiredness or erratic periods, every sign matters. Here are 7 red flags every woman must track regularly and without delay, suggests Dr Sahana:

Also read | International Day of Action for Women's Health: Beware of these common health issues

• Constant fatigue: Tiredness that lingers despite rest isn’t just a sign of being overworked. It may signal deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, calcium or vitamin D. Dr Sahana adds, “Many women with fatigue turn out to be severely anaemic or vitamin deficient. Blood tests can catch this early, and supplements or dietary changes can make a world of difference.”

• Shortness of breath or chest discomfort: Experiencing chest tightness or breathlessness, especially during exertion, should never be ignored. “It’s not always anxiety. It could point to cardiac stress or lung function issues,” cautions Dr. Sahana. Early ECG and cardiologist visits can save lives.

• Heavy or irregular periods: Painful, heavy, or erratic menstrual cycles can hint at hormonal imbalance, fibroids, or even polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). “Track your cycle with a diary. A simple ultrasound often reveals underlying causes,” Dr Sahana advises.

• Hair thinning or loss: Unexplained hair loss may be more than stress-related. It’s commonly linked to thyroid disorders or nutritional gaps. “Ask for thyroid, vitamin D, and iron level checks. Hair is often the first visible sign of an internal imbalance,” says Dr Sahana.

• Poor sleep or trouble staying asleep: Inconsistent sleep patterns affect mental and physical wellbeing. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, or sleep disorders may be the cause. “Sleep diaries help. If issues persist, a consultation can uncover hormonal or psychological triggers,” Dr Sahana suggests.

• Thyroid check: Symptoms like mood swings, fatigue, and weight changes could stem from thyroid dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism, which disproportionately affects women. “A TSH blood test is simple, yet powerful. Include it in your annual screenings,” she says.

• Screening for breast, blood pressure, and anaemia: "Routine checks are lifesavers. Self-examine your breasts monthly, schedule mammograms after 40, and monitor blood pressure regularly. Anaemia screening is equally vital, especially in menstruating women,” says Dr Sahana.