I’ve heard this story far too many times than I care to count. Doctors dismissing a parent’s gut feeling that something isn’t quite right with their child. Whether he isn’t gaining weight, he isn’t reaching milestones, or he is always sick, some pediatricians pass these symptoms off as normal or temporary behavior and the parent’s instincts as an overreaction. If you are one of the thousands of parents who suspects your child has an undiagnosed condition but your child’s doctor won’t hear your cries, what can you do?
1 Get a second opinion. Doctors aren’t all knowing and when it comes to rare or chronic conditions, they aren’t specialists. One doctor can’t know everything about every possible problem that can arise. Ask friends for recommendations of pediatricians and take your child to one who will listen to your concerns with respect and understanding.
2 Keep a record of behaviors or illness that your child has. When you notice anything out-of-sorts, write it down and be as detailed as possible. It is hard to remember every detail by the time the doctor’s appointment rolls around.
3 Research, research, research. The internet makes it so easy for us to search and research every possible condition and illness that exists. Go online and simply search your child’s symptoms to see what comes up. Find an on-line group of parents with children who have conditions you think your child may have, and ask their opinions. Other parents are always willing to help. Once you are armed with this information you can go to the pediatrician with more than your gut instinct.
4 Get a referral. If your child’s problems seem digestive, ask for a referral to a Gastro-intestinal specialist. If the symptoms are developmental, ask for a referral to a child development specialist. Ask to go to the source of knowledge on the childhood condition your child might have. If anything, a specialist may be able to point you in the right direction, even if your child doesn’t have the specific condition that particular specialist focuses on.
5 Never stop asking questions. Push until you get clear answers through testing and always trust your instincts. The most important job you will have in life is to advocate for your child.