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Many of us brush off new aches, tiredness or memory lapses as “just getting older” – especially once we hit our 50s. But a leading GP is warning that certain symptoms should never be dismissed, particularly in midlife and beyond.
Dr Reem Hasan, NHS GP and Chief Medical Officer at Vista Health, says she frequently sees patients delay seeking help because they don’t want to “make a fuss”.
It comes as new research from Vista Health found that three quarters (75%) of midlife Brits want clearer guidance on when a symptom is worth checking out. More than half (54%) admitted they initially ignored warning signs – often for an average of 14 months.
“As an NHS GP, I regularly see midlifers delay seeking help because they assume symptoms are just part of getting older,” says Dr Hasan. “But your body is very good at sending early warning signals, and listening to them really matters.”
Here are the five key symptoms she says you should never ignore.
1. Ongoing tiredness or exhaustion
Feeling permanently drained isn’t an inevitable part of ageing. If fatigue lasts more than a few weeks, it could be linked to iron deficiency, thyroid problems, sleep apnoea, depression or long-term inflammation. In rarer cases, it can signal something more serious.
“Persistent fatigue beyond a few weeks always deserves proper assessment,” says Dr Hasan.
Among midlifers surveyed, 26% reported ongoing tiredness as a recurring symptom.
2. Unexplained weight loss
Losing weight without trying should always raise a red flag. Possible causes include an overactive thyroid, diabetes, digestive disorders, infection or cancer. If you lose more than 5% of your body weight over six to 12 months without changing your diet or exercise habits, it’s time to book a GP appointment.
As we move into our 50s and 60s, the risk of certain cancers increases, making it even more important not to ignore unexplained changes.
3. Persistent or new pain
Many of us over 50 live with the odd ache or stiff joint. But ongoing pain – particularly in the chest, abdomen, back or bones – is not something to simply “push through”.
While it may be caused by common conditions such as arthritis or muscular strain, persistent pain can also signal heart disease, gallbladder problems, fractures or, in some cases, cancer. If pain lasts longer than three weeks without a clear reason, it’s worth getting checked.
4. Changes in bowel or bladder habits
Digestive changes are common in midlife, but new, persistent constipation or diarrhoea, blood in your stool, needing to urinate more often or difficulty passing urine should always be assessed.
These symptoms can be linked to benign issues such as haemorrhoids or infections, but they can also indicate bowel disease, prostate problems or cancer.
Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, affecting both men and women. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer in women, while prostate cancer is now the most common cancer in men. There is currently no national screening programme for prostate cancer, so it’s especially important for men over 50 to be aware of symptoms and seek advice if concerned.
5. Memory problems that interfere with daily life
Occasional forgetfulness – like misplacing your keys – can be normal. But worsening memory, confusion or changes in thinking that affect daily tasks are not.
Causes can range from stress, poor sleep and vitamin deficiencies to thyroid problems, infections or neurological conditions. Early assessment can lead to reassurance, treatment or lifestyle changes that make a real difference.
Why we delay seeking help
The research found that 65% of people turn to Google instead of a clinician when symptoms appear, while 77% experience recurring symptoms.
“Delaying care often comes down to uncertainty, not complacency,” Dr Hasan explains. “People worry about wasting GP time, but that hesitation can have serious consequences. In some cases, it can cost lives. In others, it means living longer with pain or symptoms that affect quality of life.”
Her advice?
“If a symptom is persistent, worsening or just doesn’t feel right, go and see your GP. Trust your instincts – you know your body best. Regular self-checks and acting early are some of the most powerful ways to catch problems sooner.”
Claire Tapley is a digital editor for Yours.co.uk. She is a journalist with over 18 years' experience writing for women over 50. Before moving to Yours.co.uk, she was deputy editor of Yours magazine for nine years. She is extremely passionate about all things health-related, specifically fitness and healthy eating. She has a huge amount of knowledge on all areas that interest women over 50, including health, well-being, finance, food, tech, beauty, and fashion.