One in three people have not gone to their GP for ongoing health symptoms since the pandemic began, research shows.
Many do not want to ‘waste their doctor’s time’ while others are fearful of attending GP surgeries in case they catch or spread coronavirus.
Two-fifths (42%) of a poll of 2,000 UK adults for Bupa Health Clinics have stayed away because they did not want to ‘waste’ doctors’ time or resources, the Sun reports.
Four in 10 assumed the problem would simply go away and 14% avoided getting treatment because they were ‘too embarrassed.’
One in six have had prolonged coughs, 11% have experienced breathing difficulties, and around one in 10 have noticed ‘unusual’ lumps.
The other types of conditions endured over the past 12 months without diagnosis or treatment included constant headaches (24%), anxiety (23%), and stomach pain (15%).
Dr Naveen Puri, lead physician for Bupa Health Clinics, said: “While the pandemic has put some aspects of life on hold, it is essential we still prioritise our health.
“Most conditions can be easily treated, especially if diagnosed early, but leaving concerns unchecked could have more serious implications.
“Likewise, getting peace of mind is important too and can stop people from worrying.
“It takes a lot to shock a doctor, and we’ve honestly seen it all before, so there is no need to be embarrassed.”