A misdiagnosis can be a serious problem — experts say that out of four people who are misdiagnosed, one will die because of it. You can help your doctor make the right diagnosis and administer the best treatment. Doctors generally consider three things when making a diagnosis: medical history, symptoms, and physical exam. Taking an active part in your health-care decisions can protect you from a misdiagnosis.
- Keep a diary of your symptoms. Whether you’ve been feeling bad for a few days or a few years, note the problems that occur most frequently. Track the level of pain or discomfort — is it barely noticeable or barely tolerable? Also keep track of your lifestyle habits, like what you eat, how you exercise, stress levels, and sleeping habits.
- Tell your doctor everything. Symptoms that you think are insignificant may be the clue to a diagnosis. Pieces of your family history that you think are unimportant may be the key to your treatment.
- Know your family history. Keep a list of your parents’, grandparents’, and siblings’ medical problems. All it takes is a short interview with each family member at your next family gathering! Share the list with everyone so they’ll be prepared.
- Ask for a second opinion. Trust that what you are experiencing is real, and keep trying until you find a doctor who takes you seriously.
- Do your research. There are plenty of medical websites out there where you can look up your symptoms. Bring your doctor a list of the things you think you might have.
- Share information between all your doctors. Going to many different doctors can lead to confusion or conflicting information. Bring copies of your medical records to every visit with every doctor.
- Accept that you may not get a straight answer right away. It may take weeks or months of testing to get a diagnosis. Be patient and don’t rush things.
- Get support. A mysterious illness can be very stressful. You may feel depressed or anxious. A mental health professional can help you deal with those feelings and keep you going in your quest for an accurate diagnosis.