How to Advocate for Your Health: Tips for Taking Control of Your Medical Care
Even if your blood tests come back normal and your doctor tells you that “Everything is fine,” you might still feel that something is off. This is why it's essential to learn how to advocate for your health, especially in today's complex medical landscape. People today are facing increasingly complex conditions. Conditions like POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome), and Dysautonomia—diseases that were once rare or misunderstood. These conditions can involve a range of debilitating symptoms that are hard to diagnose, and many healthcare providers, unfamiliar with these emerging diseases, dismiss patient concerns as “all in their head.” Such dismissal leaves patients frustrated, without the proper care they deserve. By advocating for yourself, staying informed, and seeking specialists familiar with these complex conditions, you can increase your chances of getting the right treatment.
Be Your Own Biggest Advocate
This experience highlights a critical truth—when it comes to your health, no one knows your body better than you do. Sometimes, despite "normal" test results, you may still feel unwell. Trust your intuition. Advocate for your health, because doing so can be life-saving.
Consider the story of tennis legend Serena Williams. After giving birth in 2018, Williams felt something was seriously wrong. With a history of pulmonary embolisms, she knew the signs and urged her doctors to scan for clots and start anti-clotting medications. Initially, her physicians dismissed her concerns as side effects of pain medication. But Williams persisted, and tests confirmed multiple blood clots, which could have been fatal if left untreated. Her persistence saved her life, and like Serena, your intuition can save yours.
Quick Tips for Advocating for Your Health
Here are practical steps to take control of your health care journey:
Familiarize Yourself with Your Blood Test Results Understanding your blood test measurements will empower you to engage meaningfully with your healthcare provider. Knowing what your results mean will help you make informed decisions about your health. James Lavalle’s book, Your Blood Never Lies, is an excellent resource to help you decode your blood test results and take charge of your health.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions Your relationship with your healthcare provider should be collaborative. Many of us are accustomed to just following orders from our doctors, but it’s essential to engage in a conversation. Asking questions shows you care, and healthcare providers are more likely to respond with the same level of dedication.
Express Your Concerns and Convey Your Desires Leaving the doctor's office with unanswered questions can be stressful and counterproductive. Don’t hesitate to express your concerns, and make sure you communicate what you want to achieve through treatment. When you’re clear about your goals, your healthcare provider can better support your health journey. Dr. Zachary Berger’s book, Talking to Your Doctor, is a valuable guide for improving communication with healthcare professionals.
In Conclusion: Trust Your Intuition and Take Charge of Your Health
While healthcare professionals bring invaluable expertise, no one knows your body as well as you do. You are your most important advocate, so stay informed, ask the right questions, and trust your intuition. By actively participating in your healthcare journey, you can ensure that you receive the care and treatment you truly need.
Empower yourself—take control of your health today!
