Have you ever felt like your doctor just wasn’t really listening to you? Or maybe they shrugged off your concerns entirely? If you have, you might have experienced something called medical gaslighting. This happens when a medical professional dismisses your symptoms or concerns, making you feel like they aren’t important.
Dr. Efrat Lamandre spoke on FOX 6 – WBRC in Birmingham, Alabama on July 11, 2024 about this issue and shared some powerful tips to help you navigate these situations.
How To Avoid Medical Gaslighting
Medical gaslighting happens when medical providers dismiss or downplay your symptoms, making you feel like your concerns aren’t real or important. It can sound like, “It’s all in your head” or “You’re just stressed out.” When, instead, you should be hearing, “I hear you. I believe you. Let’s explore this.”
Trust Your Gut
One of the first things Dr. E mentioned is to trust your gut. “It’s really important that you trust your gut and keep going because something is cooking,” she says. If you feel that something is wrong with your body, don’t ignore that feeling. It’s your inner wisdom telling you to pay attention. Just because a test comes back normal doesn’t mean that nothing’s wrong. You know your body better than anyone else, so trust yourself and seek out the answers you need.
Track Your Symptoms
Tracking your symptoms can be a game-changer. According to Dr. E, “What you want to do is track your symptoms so you can come in and speak to them. It makes you a more informed patient and more likely to be taken seriously.” Write down details like when the symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, and how they affect your daily life. This gives you concrete information to share with your doctor, making it easier for them to understand what you’re going through.
Not All Providers Are Created Equal
Dr. E reminds us that “not all healthcare providers are created equal.” It’s crucial to find a doctor who listens to you and takes your concerns seriously. During your first visit, pay attention to how they respond to your concerns. Do they listen and show empathy? Are they willing to collaborate with other specialists if needed? If you feel like you’re not being heard, it might be time to look for a new provider who will work with you to find answers.
Research Your Symptoms
While “Dr. Google” gets a bad rap, Dr. E finds some value in it. “I like when my patients Google…if it makes you informed about your condition and gives you the right questions to ask, now you’re walking into that exam room instead of being a passive recipient, you’re an active participant.” However, if Googling your symptoms makes you anxious, it’s best to avoid it. The goal here is to arm yourself with enough information to ask informed questions and advocate for your health effectively.
Find A Support Squad
Having a support squad can make all the difference. Dr. E says, “Having a support squad sometimes in the room with you can help you get focused, give the details that you need, and help you advocate for yourself when you might lose your voice.” This could be a friend or family member who can help you remember details, ask questions, and keep you calm and focused during medical appointments. It’s empowering to have someone by your side, cheering you on and helping you navigate the often confusing world of medical care.
Final Thoughts
Feeling heard and validated by your doctor is crucial for your well-being. If you suspect you’re experiencing medical gaslighting, remember these tips: trust your gut, track your symptoms, look for a provider who listens, research your symptoms mindfully, and bring along a support squad. You deserve to be heard and to receive the best care possible. By doing these things, you can take control of your health journey.
