If you experience a pain, a change in your appetite or difficulty breathing, these symptoms may indicate a health concern that needs attention. But with so many things going on in our lives, it’s easy to miss important details and forget to report them to a doctor or to track changes over time. Whether it’s a headache, sore foot or an unusual rash, tracking symptoms is one of the best ways to build a comprehensive picture of your health and help you become more involved in your own care.

Signs and Symptoms

There are some conditions that show no symptoms at all, such as high blood pressure or some cancers. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, these conditions can still be harmful to your health. Other diseases and disorders can cause symptoms, such as a fever, a lump or bump, unexplained weight loss or trouble sleeping.

The terms “sign” and “symptom” are often used interchangeably, but they’re different. A sign is something you or someone else notices, like a rash or a fever. A symptom is more subjective and can only be experienced by the person experiencing it. For example, if you suddenly develop floaters in your eye, this is a symptom of a detached retina, and needs immediate medical attention. This condition is usually treated with medication, so it’s important to see your doctor right away. The sooner you get treated, the more successful the treatment will be.