A missed period is often the first sign that a woman may be pregnant. However, it’s not the only reason why a period may be delayed or missed. If you’ve skipped a period and received a negative pregnancy test, you may be wondering what could be causing this confusion.
There are several factors that can contribute to a delayed or missed period, aside from pregnancy. Stress, illness, changes in weight, and certain medications can all affect your menstrual cycle. It’s also common for women to occasionally have an irregular period, where it may come late or early without any specific reason.
Although a negative pregnancy test can be disappointing if you were hoping for a positive result, it’s important to remember that the test may not always be accurate. Home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the presence of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine, but they can give false negative results if taken too early or if the concentration of hCG in your urine is not high enough.
Understanding Late Period with Negative Pregnancy Test
A delayed or missed period can be a cause of concern for many women, especially if they are sexually active and not planning a pregnancy. It is important to understand that a negative pregnancy test result does not necessarily mean that you are not pregnant.
There could be several reasons for a late period with a negative pregnancy test. One possibility is that the test was taken too early. It can take a few days or even weeks after conception for a pregnancy test to detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the urine. If you suspect you may be pregnant, it is recommended to wait a few days and retest.
Another reason for a late period could be a hormonal imbalance. Factors such as stress, changes in weight, excessive exercise, and certain medications can affect the regularity of your menstrual cycle. These factors can cause a delay in ovulation, which in turn leads to a late period.
In some cases, a missed or late period could be a sign of an underlying health condition. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and certain reproductive conditions can cause menstrual irregularities. If you are experiencing persistent late periods or other concerning symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
What to do if you have a late period with a negative pregnancy test?
If you have a late period with a negative pregnancy test, it is recommended to track your menstrual cycle and any related symptoms. Keep a record of when your periods occur, their duration, and any changes in your lifestyle or health. If you continue to have irregular periods or experience other concerning symptoms, make an appointment with your healthcare provider.
Your healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of your late period. They may order additional tests, such as blood work or imaging studies, to rule out any potential health conditions. Together, you can develop a plan to help regulate your menstrual cycle and address any underlying concerns.
In conclusion, a late period with a negative pregnancy test can be a result of various factors, including testing too early, hormonal imbalances, and underlying health conditions. If you are concerned about your late period, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.
Reasons for Delayed Menstruation without Pregnancy
A missed, delayed, or skipped period, combined with a negative pregnancy test, can be a cause for concern. While pregnancy is the most common reason for a missed period, there are several other factors that can contribute to a delayed menstruation. Here are some possible reasons:
Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalance is one of the main culprits behind delayed periods. Imbalances in hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and cause irregularities in the timing of menstruation.
Stress
Stress can have a significant impact on the menstrual cycle. High levels of stress can disrupt the hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle, leading to a delayed period. Stress can be caused by various factors, such as work pressure, emotional turmoil, or major life changes.
Weight Changes
Significant weight gain or weight loss can affect the menstrual cycle. Excess body weight can lead to an increase in estrogen levels, which may result in a delayed period. On the other hand, sudden weight loss or being significantly underweight can cause hormonal imbalances that affect the regularity of menstruation.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and reproductive disorders, can cause delayed or irregular periods. These conditions can affect hormone levels and interfere with the normal ovulation process.
Excessive Exercise
Intense physical activity or excessive exercise can put stress on the body and disrupt the menstrual cycle. This is commonly seen in athletes or women who engage in rigorous workout routines.
Medication
Some medications, such as certain types of contraceptives, antipsychotics, and chemotherapy drugs, can affect the hormonal balance in the body and delay menstruation.
| Possible Reasons for Delayed Menstruation without Pregnancy: |
|---|
| Hormonal Imbalance |
| Stress |
| Weight Changes |
| Medical Conditions |
| Excessive Exercise |
| Medication |
If you experience a delayed period without pregnancy and are concerned, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Possible Causes of Late Period and Negative Pregnancy Test
When a woman’s period is late and a pregnancy test comes back negative, it can be confusing and concerning. There are several possible causes for a delayed or missed period and a negative pregnancy test.
Hormonal Imbalance
A hormonal imbalance is one of the most common reasons for a late or missed period. Fluctuations in hormones can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and cause irregularities. Stress, excessive exercise, weight fluctuations, and certain medical conditions can all contribute to hormonal imbalances.
Stress
Stress can have a significant impact on the menstrual cycle. High levels of stress can disrupt the regular release of hormones, leading to a delayed or missed period. It is important to find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or therapy.
Other possible causes for a late period and a negative pregnancy test include certain medications, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and perimenopause.
If you are experiencing a delay in your period and have received a negative pregnancy test, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment, if necessary.
Explaining a Missed Period and Negative Pregnancy Test
When a woman’s period is skipped or delayed, it can be a cause for concern. One of the first thoughts that may come to mind is pregnancy. However, if a pregnancy test comes back negative, it can be confusing and worrisome. Understanding the reasons behind a missed period and negative pregnancy test can help alleviate some of that anxiety.
Delayed or Skipped Period
A woman’s menstrual cycle is regulated by a delicate balance of hormones. Any disruption in this balance can lead to a delayed or skipped period. There are several factors that can cause a period to be late without being pregnant:
- Stress: High levels of stress can interfere with hormone levels and disrupt the menstrual cycle.
- Weight fluctuations: Significant weight gain or loss can affect hormone production and lead to irregular periods.
- Illness or medication: Certain illnesses and medications can also impact hormone levels and cause a delay in menstruation.
If any of these factors are present, it is important to address them in order to regulate the menstrual cycle and ensure overall well-being.
Negative Pregnancy Test
A negative pregnancy test while experiencing a missed period can be confusing. However, this result is not always indicative of pregnancy. There are a few reasons why a pregnancy test may show a negative result even if a woman is pregnant:
- Testing too early: Pregnancy tests measure the level of pregnancy hormone (hCG) in the urine. If the test is taken too early, before the hCG levels have had a chance to rise, it can result in a false negative.
- Improper testing: Not following the instructions on the pregnancy test, such as not using the first morning urine or not waiting long enough for the test to develop, can also lead to inaccurate results.
- Ectopic pregnancy: In rare cases, a fertilized egg may implant outside the uterus, leading to an ectopic pregnancy. This type of pregnancy can result in a negative pregnancy test.
If a woman suspects she may be pregnant despite a negative test, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to explore possible causes and confirm the status of the pregnancy.
In conclusion, a missed period and negative pregnancy test can be attributed to various factors such as stress, weight fluctuations, illness, or medication. It is important to address these underlying causes and consult with a healthcare professional if there are concerns about pregnancy or the menstrual cycle.
When to Seek Medical Advice for a Late Period and Negative Pregnancy Test
If you have experienced a negative pregnancy test and have also skipped or experienced a delay in your period, it may be time to seek medical advice. While a delayed or missed period does not necessarily indicate pregnancy, it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health concern.
Possible Reasons for a Missed or Delayed Period
There are several potential reasons for a missed or delayed period, including:
- Hormonal imbalances: Imbalances in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can disrupt your menstrual cycle.
- Stress: High levels of stress can affect your hormones and delay or cause you to miss a period.
- Weight fluctuations: Significant weight gain or weight loss can impact your menstrual cycle.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a condition characterized by hormonal imbalances and can lead to irregular periods or missed periods.
- Thyroid issues: Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can affect your menstrual cycle.
- Perimenopause: As you approach menopause, your menstrual cycle may become irregular.
- Excessive exercise: Intense physical activity can disrupt your menstrual cycle.
- Birth control: Certain forms of birth control can cause missed or delayed periods.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you have missed your period and received a negative pregnancy test result, it is recommended to make an appointment with your healthcare provider if:
- Your period is more than two weeks late
- You have missed several periods in a row
- You have other concerning symptoms such as severe pelvic pain or sudden weight gain
- You have recently stopped taking birth control
- You have a history of irregular periods or underlying medical conditions
Your healthcare provider can help determine the potential cause of your missed or delayed period and recommend appropriate next steps. They may conduct further testing, such as blood tests or ultrasound, to identify any underlying health issues. Seeking medical advice can provide you with peace of mind and help ensure your reproductive health.
Causes of Delayed Periods with Negative Pregnancy Test Results
Missed or delayed periods can be concerning, especially if a woman is sexually active and is anticipating pregnancy. However, a negative pregnancy test can add to the confusion and frustration. There are several reasons why a woman may experience a delayed period with negative pregnancy test results.
1. Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalances can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle, leading to a delayed period. Fluctuations in hormone levels can be caused by various factors such as stress, weight changes, excessive exercise, or certain medical conditions.
2. Stress
Stress can have a significant impact on the menstrual cycle. High levels of stress can disrupt the normal functioning of the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for regulating hormones involved in the menstrual cycle.
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods or even missed periods. This condition is characterized by the overproduction of androgens (male hormones) and the formation of cysts on the ovaries.
4. Thyroid Disorders
Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can impact the menstrual cycle. An underactive or overactive thyroid can disrupt the production of hormones necessary for a regular period.
5. Anovulation
Anovulation refers to the absence of ovulation, the process of releasing an egg from the ovary. Without ovulation, menstruation may be delayed or skipped entirely. Anovulation can occur due to hormonal imbalances or certain medical conditions.
6. Medications
Some medications, such as hormonal contraceptives or certain antidepressants, can affect the menstrual cycle. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider if you suspect that your medication is causing a delayed period.
In conclusion, a missed or delayed period with negative pregnancy test results can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, polycystic ovary syndrome, thyroid disorders, anovulation, or medications. If you are concerned about your menstrual cycle, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and guidance.
Factors Influencing the Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is influenced by various factors that can lead to a delay or skipped period, even if a pregnancy test is negative. These factors include:
- Stress: Increased levels of stress can affect hormone production and disrupt the menstrual cycle. This can result in a missed or delayed period.
- Changes in weight: Significant changes in weight, whether it is weight gain or weight loss, can impact the menstrual cycle. In some cases, this can cause a missed or late period.
- Hormonal imbalances: Imbalances in hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. This can lead to a delayed or missed period.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as hormonal birth control or certain antidepressants, can affect the menstrual cycle. This can result in a skipped or delayed period.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods or a complete absence of periods. Women with PCOS may experience delayed or missed periods.
- Thyroid disorders: Thyroid imbalances, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can disrupt the menstrual cycle. This can lead to a late or missed period.
- Perimenopause: As women approach menopause, their hormone levels fluctuate. This can cause irregular periods or a missed period.
In conclusion, a missed or delayed period, along with a negative pregnancy test, can be caused by various factors other than pregnancy. It is important to consider these factors and consult with a healthcare professional if there are concerns about the menstrual cycle.
Medical Conditions that Affect Menstrual Regularity
Delayed, missed, or late periods can be caused by a variety of medical conditions. While pregnancy is often the first potential cause that comes to mind, a negative pregnancy test can leave you wondering what else could be causing the delay. Here are a few medical conditions that may affect menstrual regularity:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can disrupt the normal ovulation process. Women with PCOS often experience irregular periods or may even skip them entirely. This condition is characterized by the presence of multiple cysts on the ovaries, imbalances in hormone levels, and other symptoms such as weight gain and excessive hair growth.
Thyroid Disorders
An underactive or overactive thyroid gland can also lead to menstrual irregularities. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle, so any imbalance can cause delayed or missed periods. Symptoms of thyroid disorders may include weight changes, fatigue, mood swings, and changes in heart rate.
In addition to PCOS and thyroid disorders, other medical conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and certain medications can also affect menstrual regularity. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing consistent delays, missed periods, or any other concerning symptoms.
Stress and its Impact on Menstrual Cycle
Stress is a common factor that can cause a delayed, late, or missed period. When you experience high levels of stress, your body may respond by altering the hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle. This hormonal imbalance can lead to a delay or skipped period.
Chronic stress, such as ongoing work pressure, relationship problems, or financial difficulties, can have a significant impact on your menstrual cycle. It can disrupt the normal functioning of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries, causing irregularities in your periods.
Stress can also influence the production of cortisol, a hormone that plays a role in regulating your menstrual cycle. Elevated cortisol levels can interfere with the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are essential for ovulation and the regular shedding of the uterine lining.
Furthermore, stress can affect the communication between your brain and reproductive organs, interfering with the signals that trigger menstruation. This disruption can lead to a delay or missed period, even if you are not pregnant.
If you have been experiencing stress and have a delayed or missed period, it is essential to take care of your mental and emotional well-being. Engaging in stress-reducing activities, such as exercise, meditation, or therapy, can help alleviate the impact of stress on your menstrual cycle.
While stress is a common cause of a delayed or missed period, it is important to note that other factors can also contribute to menstrual irregularities. If you are concerned about your missed period and have taken a negative pregnancy test, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Changes in Weight and its Effect on the Menstrual Cycle
Weight can play a significant role in the regularity of a woman’s menstrual cycle. Significant changes in weight, whether it is a gain or loss, can cause a delay in the onset of menstruation. While pregnancy is often the first thought when a period is missed, a negative pregnancy test may indicate that weight fluctuations are to blame for the delayed or skipped period.
When a woman experiences a sudden change in weight, it can disrupt her body’s hormonal balance. Fat cells in the body produce and store estrogen, a hormone that plays a major role in regulating the menstrual cycle. If there is a significant loss or gain of fat, this can impact the levels of estrogen in the body and lead to a delayed or irregular period.
Additionally, extreme weight loss or being underweight can cause the body to conserve energy and prioritize essential functions, like ensuring proper organ function and maintaining body temperature. As a result, the body may suppress or delay nonessential functions such as menstruation.
Similarly, rapid weight gain or being overweight can also disrupt hormone levels and delay menstruation. The excess fat cells in the body can result in higher estrogen levels, which can interfere with the regularity of the menstrual cycle.
If you have recently experienced a significant change in weight and are concerned about a delayed, skipped, or late period, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide further insight into how weight fluctuations may affect your menstrual cycle and recommend any necessary steps to restore regularity.
In summary, weight fluctuations can have a direct impact on the regularity of a woman’s menstrual cycle. Significant changes in weight, whether it is a gain or loss, can cause a delay in the onset of menstruation. If pregnancy is ruled out with a negative pregnancy test, weight changes should be considered as a possible cause for the delayed or skipped period.
Managing a Skipped Period and Negative Pregnancy Test
When your period is late or delayed, it’s natural to become concerned about the possibility of being pregnant. However, a negative pregnancy test can be confusing and leave you wondering why your period is late. There are several reasons why your period may be delayed or skipped, and it’s important to understand them in order to manage the situation.
Possible Reasons for a Missed or Delayed Period:
- Stress: Stress can have a significant impact on your menstrual cycle. It can cause hormonal imbalances, which in turn can affect the regularity of your periods.
- Weight Fluctuations: Drastic changes in weight, whether it is weight gain or weight loss, can disrupt your menstrual cycle. This is especially true if you have a low body weight or if you are overweight.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Imbalances in hormones, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders, can lead to irregular periods. These conditions require medical attention and should be addressed by a healthcare professional.
- Excessive Exercise: Intense physical activity or over-exercising can interfere with your menstrual cycle. This is commonly seen in athletes or individuals who engage in rigorous workouts on a regular basis.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as hormonal contraceptives or antidepressants, can affect your menstrual cycle and cause a delay in your period.
Steps to Manage a Skipped Period:
- Take Another Pregnancy Test: While a negative pregnancy test can be accurate, it’s a good idea to take another test a week or two later just to be sure.
- Monitor and Track: Keep track of your menstrual cycle and any changes or irregularities. This can help you identify patterns and potential triggers for skipped periods.
- Reduce Stress: Find ways to manage and reduce stress in your life. This can include practicing relaxation techniques, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that bring you joy.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight. This can help regulate your hormones and ensure the proper functioning of your reproductive system.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: If your periods continue to be irregular or if you are experiencing other symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can assess your situation, conduct necessary tests, and provide appropriate guidance and treatment if needed.
Remember, a skipped period and a negative pregnancy test don’t necessarily mean something is wrong. However, it’s important to be proactive and take steps to understand and manage any changes or irregularities in your menstrual cycle.
Treatments for Irregular Menstruation without Pregnancy
When a woman experiences a late, delayed, or missed period, it can be a cause for concern. However, if a pregnancy test comes back negative, there can be other reasons for the irregularity in menstruation. In such cases, there are several treatments available to help regulate the menstrual cycle.
1. Lifestyle Changes
One of the first steps in treating irregular menstruation without pregnancy is to make necessary lifestyle changes. This may include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress levels. These lifestyle modifications can help restore hormonal balance and promote regular menstrual cycles.
2. Hormonal Birth Control
In some cases, hormonal birth control can be prescribed to regulate the menstrual cycle. This can be in the form of birth control pills, patches, injections, or hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs). These methods provide a consistent level of hormones, which can help regulate the menstrual cycle and make it more predictable.
3. Medications
There are various medications available that can help regulate menstruation. These medications may include hormone-regulating drugs, such as progestins or estrogen-progestin combinations. They work by influencing hormone levels in the body and can help regulate the menstrual cycle.
4. Surgical Procedures
In some cases, surgical procedures may be recommended to address underlying issues causing irregular menstruation. This may include procedures such as laparoscopy to diagnose and remove any abnormal growths or polyps in the reproductive organs. Surgical intervention can help restore regular menstruation.
If you are experiencing irregular menstruation without pregnancy, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, perform necessary tests, and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your specific situation.
Preventing Delayed Periods without Pregnancy
Having a skipped or delayed period can be concerning, especially if you are sexually active and a pregnancy test comes back negative. There can be various reasons for a missed period, other than pregnancy. Here are some tips to help prevent delayed periods without pregnancy:
1. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Leading a healthy lifestyle is crucial for maintaining regular menstrual cycles. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress levels can contribute to the regularity of your period.
2. Monitor Your Weight
Both excessive weight gain and weight loss can disrupt your menstrual cycle. Maintaining a healthy weight within the recommended range for your body type and height can help prevent delayed periods.
3. Consider Birth Control
Some forms of birth control, such as oral contraceptives, can regulate menstrual cycles and ensure regular periods. Consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the best option for you.
4. Manage Stress Levels
Stress can have a significant impact on your hormonal balance, which can lead to delayed or missed periods. Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, and find healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress effectively.
5. Avoid Excessive Exercise
While regular exercise is beneficial for overall health, excessive or extreme workouts can disrupt your menstrual cycle. Make sure to strike a balance and prioritize rest and recovery to avoid delayed periods.
6. Prioritize Sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining hormonal balance and regular menstrual cycles. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support a healthy menstrual cycle.
Remember, if you continue to experience delayed periods despite making lifestyle changes, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
Lifestyle Changes to Regulate Menstrual Cycle
If you have missed your period and your pregnancy test came back negative, it can be frustrating and confusing. There are several lifestyle changes that you can consider in order to regulate your menstrual cycle.
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight or underweight can disrupt your menstrual cycle. It is important to maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on how to achieve your target weight.
2. Reduce Stress
Stress can have a negative impact on your menstrual cycle. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques, participating in regular exercise, and engaging in activities that bring you joy.
3. Improve Sleep Habits
A lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can affect hormonal balance and therefore your menstrual cycle. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night and establish a consistent sleep routine.
4. Avoid Excessive Exercise
While regular exercise is important, excessive exercise can disrupt your menstrual cycle. Find the right balance and avoid overtraining. Consult with a fitness professional for guidance on a suitable exercise routine.
5. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Consumption
Excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol can interfere with hormonal balance and may lead to irregular menstrual cycles. Limit your intake of these substances for better reproductive health.
6. Quit Smoking
Smoking has been linked to menstrual irregularities due to its negative effects on hormone levels. Quitting smoking can help regulate your cycle and improve overall reproductive health.
Remember, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing persistent and concerning changes in your menstrual cycle.
| Missed Period | Negative Pregnancy Test |
|---|---|
| A missed period refers to the absence of menstruation for one or more cycles. | A negative pregnancy test indicates that you are not pregnant. |
| While pregnancy is a common reason for a missed period, there are other factors that can cause a late or skipped period. | A negative pregnancy test can be due to taking the test too early, low levels of the pregnancy hormone, or other underlying medical conditions. |
When to Consult a Medical Professional for Late Periods
If you’ve skipped a period or your period is significantly delayed, it can be a cause for concern. While a missed period can often be attributed to factors such as stress, hormonal imbalances, or changes in weight, it is important to consult a medical professional if you experience consistently late periods or if your period is more than a few weeks overdue.
One common reason for a missed period is pregnancy. Even if you have taken a pregnancy test and it came back negative, it’s still a good idea to consult a doctor to rule out any potential underlying issues. Sometimes, home pregnancy tests can produce false negative results, especially if taken too early or if the test is not used correctly.
A healthcare provider can perform a more accurate pregnancy test and also evaluate other possible causes for the delay. Their expertise can help determine if there are any underlying health conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders, contributing to the late or missed periods.
If you have a history of irregular periods or if your period suddenly becomes irregular, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue. Other symptoms, such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, or changes in your menstrual cycle, should also be evaluated by a medical professional.
In some cases, a delayed or missed period can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, or even certain types of cancer. A healthcare provider can conduct further tests or refer you to a specialist if necessary.
It’s important not to ignore consistently late or missed periods, as they could be indicators of an underlying health problem. Consulting a medical professional is the best course of action to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment or guidance.