I went to the doctor with concerns over a brain defect I have. I have been experiencing more symptoms related to the defect and I wanted some tests to ensure that it isn't getting worse. The end result of it worsening could be paralysis, so naturally I'm concerned. The first thing he said was that it must be stress causing my symptoms. Frankly I don't feel that I am under any stress at all, I'm feeling pretty good about my life in general. The only stress I have is a doctor who doesn't listen. I also live in an area where it isn't easy to get a new family doctor. Does anyone have any advice on how to deal with a doctor who thinks that anything a woman complains about is in her head or due to stress?
2006-11-28 17:32:39 · 12 answers · asked by jjmlls 2 in Health ➔ Women's Health
Dear Dear,
First of all let me assure you that your doc (he must be older) is not a rarity. The best way to deal with him is to learn more about your defect. Then you will be able to ask him pertinent questions and relevant to the symptoms you are facing. But remember getting into an argument will not help anyone. So you may try an approach like... Dr I agree with you that it may be stress, but do you think that it has any thing to do with this symptom i am experiencing (use your new found knowledge here).
This will show to him that you are not one of these empty-headed stereotypes of women he Haas in mind.
So go for it and let me know. All the best
2006-11-28 18:07:19 · answer #1 · answered by john k 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Unless you are in a HMO, just make an appointment with a neurologist. If you have an on-going problem there should be a doc following you, advising, periodically testing, etc.
My family doc has mild mood swings. You might try yours on another day. If you get the same response say something to the effect of, "Look, I know my stress level & it is minimal right now. I am concerned about my condition & if you won't talk straight with me I'll find another doc."
It is hard to do. But if you are straight forward you will at least get the information you need about that person....if not your problem.
Good luck.
2006-11-28 17:41:46 · answer #2 · answered by buttercup 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Change doctors immediately. Your doctor is endangering your health and has no empathy or compassion for the illnesses that affect women differently than men. Report the doctor to your local and state medical board because you are not receiving adequate health care. See a reputable neurologist not a gp.
Some medical doctors of both sexes are some of the biggest sexists when it comes to the treatment of women. You get tired of hearing that all of your ills are because of that time of the month or stress. More men have symptoms because of stress than women.
For example, most pharmaceutical trials are geared to diseases that are common in men. Men have Viagra and other knockoffs for sexual dysfunction. What do women have besides artificial hormones with lots of side effects like weight gain, headaches. and cancer
2006-11-28 18:06:37 · answer #3 · answered by ne11 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Find a different doc. I know you say there aren't many choices - but I've had to deal with the same thing.
And yep - they are the ones causing the stupid stress.
And one of the docs saying my problems were all stress was a woman. She didn't get that I'm not stressed 24\7 cause I have 4 kids - and her 1 stresses her out....
2006-11-28 18:04:34 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would be very upfront with your doctor. Tell him that you disagree with him and would like him to rethink his plan of care. If you can possibly change doctors (I know you said it was difficult) I would look into that if you still don't get the answers you need from your current doc. Remember that doctors are human (they may think they are gods sometimes but, we need to bring them back into reality) and they do make mistakes. Please talk to him like you would anyone else that you are paying for services. Your illness sounds much too serious to have a doctor blowing off your symptoms. Good luck.
2006-11-28 17:41:32 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Unfortunately if the doctor is set in his thinking, you're going to have to live with it or find another doctor. Is there a National Association for the problem you are experiencing? Maybe they could direct you to a better doctor for your needs.
2006-11-28 17:45:40 · answer #6 · answered by Susan M 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
try getting a new doctor regardless. Are there any nurse practitioners that you could see. regardless, you have a concern and it should be dealt with appropriately. Also, do some of your own research as well. Lots of health sites to look up on the net
2006-11-28 17:36:39 · answer #7 · answered by pussnboots333 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I'm sorry you have to go through that. It sounds as though he is hearing you but not lstening and maybe you need to get his attention. The next time you go to see him tell him you have a friend with the same concerns you have and ask him what your friend should do. When he answers you tell him your friend is you and tell him you are sorry you had to decieve him nut you felt that it was the only way to get his attention. Good Luck
2006-11-28 17:56:35 · answer #8 · answered by tpbthigb 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Switch to a CNA!!! (Certified Nurse Midwife) They to more than deliver babies, and many practice much like LNPs. I get all my yearlies from one, and so does my post-menopausal Mother-in-law. She also monitors a chronic condition I have and treats me when I'm sick. You get a sympathetic woman who can write prescriptions, spend more time with you in the office and give lots more TLC. Good luck!
2006-11-28 18:14:06 · answer #9 · answered by karen c 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You have only two possible choices. Either listen to your doctor OR get another doctor.
2006-11-28 17:36:28 · answer #10 · answered by twoclones 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋