13 Signs People Mistake for Curse, But They’re Real Illnesses

Many people turn to superstition when they feel unwell, but most warning signs have medical explanations. This guide outlines 13 common symptoms that are frequently mistaken for curses and explains when to see a doctor.

1. Depression, mood decline, and loss of interest

Persistent sadness, apathy, and a loss of interest in activities can appear without an obvious trigger and last for weeks or more. Causes include genetic factors, chemical imbalances in the brain, certain medications, and high stress.

• Genetic predisposition
• Imbalances of brain chemicals such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine
• Medication side effects
• Stressful life events or trauma

Other common signs are trouble concentrating, changes in sleep and appetite, headaches, and a feeling of hopelessness. Left untreated, depression can worsen and increase risk of self-harm. Seek professional help rather than assuming a curse is to blame.

2. Unexplained body-wide pain

Chronic muscle and joint pain without a clear cause is a hallmark of fibromyalgia. It often comes with fatigue, anxiety, headaches, and digestive changes. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, theories point to nerve sensitivity, hormonal shifts, genetics, and stress.

Treatment focuses on improving quality of life and may include medications for pain and mood, physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, stress management, regular exercise, and better sleep.

3. Diarrhea and green or unusual stool

Diarrhea happens to many people and is usually linked to infections, food intolerance, or medications. Antibiotics can disrupt gut bacteria, leading to loose stools.

Tips: stay hydrated, eat bland foods like rice, bananas, and toast, and monitor for red flags such as black stool, bloody stool, severe pain, or dehydration. See a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.

4. Sudden, unexplained weight loss

Losing a noticeable amount of weight without changes in diet or activity can indicate a medical issue rather than a curse. Common causes include thyroid problems, cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, heart problems, infections, and hormonal disorders.

If you drop about 4.5 kilograms (10 pounds) over 6 to 12 months without trying, consult a clinician for a full checkup. Early detection improves outcomes.

5. Unusual bleeding

Frequent nosebleeds, heavy gum bleeding, or easy bruising can alarm family members and be mistaken for supernatural signs. In reality, these symptoms point to possible bleeding disorders or liver problems.

Possible conditions include a clotting disorder, low platelets, liver disease, or vitamin K deficiency. A physician will order blood tests to identify the cause and plan treatment.

6. Shortness of breath and chest heaviness

Sudden chest tightness or breathlessness can feel frightening and be mistaken for a magical attack. Causes range from anemia and asthma to anxiety, heart or lung disease, infections, or obesity.

If symptoms linger or worsen, seek medical evaluation. A clinician will assess heart and lung health and check oxygen levels.

7. Excessive hair growth in women

Unwanted facial and body hair in women, known as hirsutism, often signals a hormonal imbalance. The most common cause is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which may also bring acne and irregular periods. Other conditions include Cushing’s syndrome, tumors, or thyroid issues.

Consult a doctor to test hormone levels. Treatments may involve hormonal therapy, weight management, and hair removal options.

8. Chronic fatigue

Persistent tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest can be due to lifestyle factors such as poor nutrition, excessive alcohol, stress, or sedentary work. Fatigue also appears with many illnesses, including kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, infections, depression, thyroid problems, and anemia.

Some medications can cause fatigue as a side effect. If tiredness lasts, a family doctor can help identify underlying causes and create a plan to restore energy.

9. Hearing voices

Hearing voices that others do not hear is frightening and is sometimes interpreted as a curse or dark magic. In most cases, it is a symptom of a mental health condition such as psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or PTSD, and may occur with neurological disorders.

People experiencing these symptoms should seek evaluation from a psychiatrist. Treatment often includes antipsychotic medications that reduce or stop the voices.

10. Eye problems

Excessive tearing, eye strain, or sensitivity to light can be alarming but are often caused by fatigue or eye strain from screen time, lighting, or contact lens use.

If symptoms continue, see an eye specialist. Simple steps like taking breaks from screens, using lubricating eye drops, and adjusting lighting can help reduce discomfort.

11. Panic attacks and anxiety spikes

Sudden fear, trembling, sweating, throat tightness, and a sense of danger can feel like a supernatural attack. This is a common anxiety disorder and can occur without a clear trigger.

Panic attacks usually peak within about 10 minutes. They can be driven by stress, hormonal changes, caffeine or stimulant use, or past trauma. When attacks recur and disrupt life, a clinician may diagnose panic disorder. Treatments include psychotherapy, breathing techniques, exercise, and medications when appropriate.

12. Epilepsy

A seizure can be frightening but is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizures come in many forms, from brief staring spells to loss of consciousness with shaking. Some people experience an aura before a seizure.

Causes include head injury, stroke, brain tumors, congenital conditions, or past infections; in many cases the cause remains unknown. If a seizure lasts more than five minutes or occurs repeatedly, call emergency services immediately.

13. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition marked by itchy, scaly patches. It is not contagious but can be persistent and uncomfortable. The immune system accelerates skin cell growth, causing thick, flaky plaques commonly on elbows, knees, the back, and scalp. Some forms affect nails or joints, known as psoriatic arthritis.

Triggers include stress, infections, skin injuries, smoking, and certain medicines. A dermatologist usually diagnoses psoriasis, sometimes aided by a biopsy. Treatments range from topical steroids and vitamin D creams to light therapy and systemic drugs or biologics. With proper care, many people manage symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life.

Expert comment: Medical professionals remind that many symptoms attributed to curses have solid medical explanations and deserve proper evaluation. Early, accurate diagnosis improves outcomes and helps avoid delays in treatment.

Summary: Recognizing these 13 warning signs can help you distinguish illness from superstition. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice promptly. Timely care supports better recovery and reduces risk of complications.

Key insight: Persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a clinician first; superstition cannot replace science in safeguarding health.