MISDIAGNOSIS: PART III

Medical Gaslighting

When healthcare professionals dismiss or downplay a patient's symptoms, often implying that they are exaggerated or imagined, it's called Medical Gaslighting. Such behavior can leave patients feeling confused about their own health.

Catastrophic Effect on Patients

In Part I & II of my blog series "Medical Gaslighting & its Catastrophic Effect on Patients," we met Caitlin and Tamara. Both stories were beyond comprehension. It wasn't until Tamara fell down the stairs holding her toddler that the 5th doctor, a neurologist, listened to her and finally diagnosed Parkinson's.

So many people like Caitlin and Tamara left multiple doctor appointments feeling ignored, invalidated, and puzzled about what was really going on with their health. When it happened, their underlying health conditions were minimized, creating feelings of isolation and despair..

Impact on Patients

The effects of medical gaslighting can be severe. Patients often grapple with unresolved health issues while also facing emotional and psychological challenges. Victims of gaslighting are at a higher risk of developing anxiety, depression, and a troubling loss of self-worth.

Recognizing the Signs of Gaslighting

Identifying medical gaslighting can be tough, especially in such a complicated field. Here are some clear signs to help you recognize when it’s happening:

1. Dismissal of Symptoms: If your doctor frequently tells you that your symptoms are "all in your head," it may indicate a serious issue.

2. Lack of Investigation: If your doctor quickly dismisses your symptoms without conducting any follow-up tests, your concerns may not be taken seriously.

3. Feeling Invalidated: If appointments leave you confused or doubting your own health concerns, it may suggest gaslighting is at play.

4. Repetitive Patterns: If you find yourself constantly advocating for your symptoms or suggesting possible diagnoses, that can be a crucial indicator of gaslighting.

If you suspect you're facing gaslighting from a healthcare provider, consider these practical steps:

1. Seek a Second Opinion: Don’t hesitate to consult another doctor who may provide a fresh perspective on your symptoms.

2. Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed journal of your symptoms, their impact on your daily life, and all treatments tried. This record can facilitate clearer communication with your medical team.

3. Find Support: Engage with others dealing with similar health issues. Online communities or support groups can offer both validation and empowerment.

4. Advocate for Yourself: Make sure to ask questions, request testing, or insist on clarity regarding your treatment plan.

5. Education is Key: Research your symptoms and potential conditions. Being informed can equip you to have more productive conversations with healthcare providers.

Summary

This problem is real. If it hasn't happened to you, it probably has happened to someone you know. The survey below is more anecdotal than scientific, yet important. Please take the time to answer the questions. From this, we can begin to figure out ways to combat this issue.