Despite the fact that most people are fully aware of how important taking care of themselves is, talking openly to their doctor can be difficult. There are a few reasons for this. Some people simply don’t enjoy the environment of a doctor’s office, while others often fear that seeing a doctor might confirm something that they’re already worried about. This was the case with my mom when she developed a lump on her neck. She avoided getting it checked for months in fear that it was cancer…and, it was. Because of her delay, her prognosis was not good and the disease took her life. Though the majority of concerns won’t be this serious, it’s imperative to be honest with your doctor. My tragic example is just one thing that can go wrong when you avoid the truth and help.
Be Honest with Your Doctor Reason #1: It Reduces Risks
I’ve seen the horrible and senseless result of letting fear take over. When loved ones hide their head in the sand, in denial of potential health dangers, it hurts everyone. The truth is, we all have fear, but not facing it and what may be happening in our body is far riskier than knowing. This is often the most common reason that people don’t go to the doctor. A lump might be nothing, but it might also be something, as in my mom’s case.
I recommend getting annual check ups and all of the appropriate diagnostic tests for your age group. These routine exams can literally save your life if something is brewing. Additionally, call your doctor if there are things that have changed in your body, mind, and energy levels. Things like suicidal thoughts and extreme depression may seem like something to hide, but they are not. Let your doctor know what your lifestyle is really like. That means if you drink heavily, smoke, or engage in other risky activities, speak up.
Be Honest with Your Doctor Reason #2: You Can Make Informed Decisions
We all want to make the best possible choices for our health, but, sometimes, we need a professional to help us do that. Yes, the internet does provide us with an enormous database of health information. However, just reading supplement reviews like this AlgaeCal reviews and testimonials may not be enough. You need complete information to make a good decision. These websites don’t know you and your unique health history. They are meant to provide supplemental information to that of your physician’s. Your doctor is on your side and wants you to have safe and effective care. He or she also wants to help you make the best choices for your specific situation. And, if you find that you and your doctor don’t agree, consider getting a second opinion.
Be Honest with Your Doctor Reason #3: Get the Latest Information Faster
The medical community is moving forward at lightning speed, as the entire world is. You no longer have to wait weeks or months to get quality information and results from your doctor. He or she can connect to multiple systems and databases to support your care. And, services like Skype and patient portals are quickly becoming a normal part of this care. If you happen to be dealing with a serious illness, your doctor has technology that can speed up your access to proper treatment. If there is something you need that you are not getting, you need to ask to see what can be done.
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s lifelink, it’s owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.