It’s gross...but good for you
They may not be pleasant, but these embarrassing issues can often simply be a sign your body is doing exactly what it is supposed to, says NATASHA HOLT
Lots of nostril hair
It might not be the most attractive to look at, but nostril hair plays a vital part in keeping us healthy.
“Nostril hair is your body’s way of filtering out the rubbish in the air,” explains Dr Babak Ashrafi, Clinical Lead at online doctor Zava UK.
“From pollen to dust, your nose hair stops these contaminants from getting into the body and reduces the chances of allergies and harmful bacteria getting into the lungs, which can make you poorly.
“Plucking and waxing nostril hair can lead to irritation and ingrown hairs, as well as removing one of the body’s most important barriers.”
Calluses on the bottom of your feet
Calluses are thick, hard patches of skin, usually on the feet or hands, which develop due to prolonged contact or pressure.
“They may feel strange or look unpleasant, but this is actually a sign that the body is protecting itself,” says Dr Ashrafi. “They serve to protect the under layers of skin from pressure, or irritation. But if the skin breaks or the callus is infected, speak to a doctor.”
Sweating
Damp patches aren’t a great look, but sweating is a valuable tool in our body’s health arsenal.
“Sweating serves to cool the body down in high temperatures, or when you’re suffering a fever. It’s usually a sign that your body is working effectively,” says Dr Ashrafi. “But if you’re sweating much more than you normally would, especially at night, speak to your GP to rule out any other issues.”
Hairy toes
They might send you scurrying off for a pedicure, but hairy toes are a symptom of good health.
“Hairy toes are a good sign and something to be embraced as they show you have good blood circulation through your body,” says Dr Ashrafi. “That means your organs are correctly functioning and pumping the oxygen and blood to all the right places.”
Lots of ear wax
“It’s all too tempting to use a cotton swab to clean your ears because there’s so much unappealing wax inside them, but it’s important to recognise that ear wax is great for the ears,” says Dr Ashrafi. “It’s a barrier that stops bacteria entering the eardrum.
“The ears are meant to be sticky, the sticker the better in fact, as it prevents the ears from drying out. However, if it is causing discomfort or issues with your hearing, it’s best to speak to a pharmacist.”
Passing wind
As embarrassing as it can be is, passing wind often indicates things are working well.
“Passing wind is often a sign of a balanced diet, meaning you’re fuelling your body with all the right nutrients,” says Dr Ashrafi.
“It also reduces any abdominal pain that may result from the consumption of food and beverages.”
But if you’re noticing you have more wind than usual over a prolonged period, speak to a doctor, because it could be symptomatic of a medical condition, such as IBS.
Gurgling stomach
“A gurgling stomach is often a sign that the digestive process is in full swing and working well. The noise is caused by food entering the intestine from the stomach,” says Dr Ashrafi.
“It might also be your body telling you you’re hungry or your stomach releasing enzymes ready for your next meal.”
However, there’s a slim chance it could be caused by a parasite that causes giardiasis, which is spread in contaminated water.
So if you have holidayed somewhere exotic and develop new tummy noises that don’t got away, get it checked out.
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