We all get aches and pains from time to time. You know, the pains that come for a while, then go away. They may last for a few minutes, a few hours, or even a few days before they finally disappear. As it turns out though, those random aches and pains aren’t really random after all. They actually mean something.

Foot pain is common, especially in older women. While it may seem like a good idea to sit down and relax and avoid putting weight on your feet, being immobile brings on a whole new set of issues. Frequent foot pain is the result of plantar fasciitis that causes pain in the bottom of the arch of your feet. Stretching, massage, and anti-inflammatory medications are often the best remedy for this type of pain.

If your knee likes to buckle underneath you; you will likely need to see a doctor. It may be due to arthritis, nerve damage, or injury, but leaving it untreated can result in even further damage. Achy legs can also be a reason to go see your doctor. While achy legs may be simply from being on your feet for several hours, it could also be due to peripheral vascular disease which can be caused by diabetes, blood clots, or infection.

Pain behind your ear, if it’s not caused by your neck being bent in an awkward position, may be more serious than you think. It could be caused by a migraine or pinched nerve, but it could also be caused by a blood clot, infection, or other vascular disorder that needs immediate medical attention. A sharp pain in your head that doesn’t go away or comes back regularly can also be reason for concern. You should seek treatment from your doctor as soon as possible.

Cramps can be another cause of discomfort and concern. You know the kind of cramp you get in your side if you exercise right after you eat? That is likely caused by indigestion, but if you’re getting these types of cramps in other parts of your bodies you could be suffering from calcium, potassium, or magnesium deficiency. Sharp pains that happen in your stomach from time to time can be just gas, but if the pain doesn’t go away, you need to seek medical treatment immediately. It could be your appendix, an ulcer, or some other type of gastrointestinal issue.

If you are experiencing pain in your chest, it’s never a good idea to wait and see if it will just go away on its own. While this type of pain could be radiating from your stomach, or be nothing more than a pulled muscle, it could also be caused by your heart. Do not ignore this type of pain, especially if it includes other symptoms of a heart attack.

Pain in your back and shoulders can also be an indication of heart issues, but more commonly back pain is the result of a pulled muscle caused by poor posture or a sudden change in position. Pain that lasts more than a day or two should be checked out by a doctor because it could be due to something more significant like a pinched nerve, herniated disc, or a kidney stone.

If you have a sore throat, that pain could be due to nothing more than a nasty cold. There are a few reasons for throat pain and discomfort that pose significantly more risk than the common cold. If your pain comes on suddenly after eating certain foods it could be due to an allergy. This type of reaction needs immediate, emergency medical treatment. The pain could also be caused by consuming too much sugar. Sugar can cause the acid content in your throat to build up causing inflammation and irritation.

So the next time you experience odd aches and pains, if in doubt, seek medical attention. Your body may be trying to tell you more than what you think it is.