Ahhh that means you've got the 'search' switched on or have weapons that are too heavy for your character. I remember being battered by rats for tons of health until I figured - you only hit the magnifying glass on when you suspect a trap - otherwise keep it off. The game is hard as nails but overall fair (nonetheless some kind of help popups wouldn't go amiss - despite that undermining the hardcore vibe it's working for)
