Always remember: you’re the expert about how you’re feeling physically and emotionally–and nobody else.  If you’re noticing symptoms or experiencing unfamiliar sensations, it’s important that you bring them up with your doctor. It’s a doctor’s responsibility to listen to you, diagnose your cancer properly, and recommend a treatment plan, and provide ongoing support, but what happens if you feel you can’t get someone to listen to your concerns? Having a medical professional question, downplay, or even dismiss your symptoms can add more stress to what you’re already feeling. 

If this has happened with a doctor, you may have experienced medical gaslighting. In this blog, we explain how you can spot signs of medical gaslighting and ways to address it.

Why does medical gaslighting happen?

Sometimes, patients may feel dismissed or that their symptoms aren’t being taken seriously. This can happen for different reasons. A physician may be managing a busy schedule and unintentionally overlook a concern. In other cases, unconscious bias or systemic disparities in health care can play a role. Black Americans, women, LGBTQIA+ patients, and older adults tend to experience medical gaslighting disproportionately due to these unconscious biases and lack of training on cultural nuances.

This can be especially challenging for younger people, since cancer is more often associated with older adults. As a result, younger patients sometimes struggle to have their symptoms taken seriously, which can lead to delays in getting a diagnosis.

Understanding the reasons behind medical gaslighting can help you better advocate for yourself and prepare for upcoming visits.

What are some signs of medical gaslighting?

Medical gaslighting can take many forms. Some are easy to recognize, while others are more subtle. More obvious signs include a health care provider dismissing your concerns, speaking over you, or treating you disrespectfully. Subtler signs might look like making assumptions about you based on your age, race, gender, or weight, declining to refer you to a specialist, or suggesting that your symptoms are normal or “all in your head.” 

When medical gaslighting happens, you may start having self-doubt about the concerns you had. After the appointment is over, you might feel unheard, misunderstood, or anxious because your concerns weren’t fully addressed, leaving you with more questions than answers. 

What can you do if you experience medical gaslighting?

Often, a provider may not realize how their words or actions come across. It may not be their intention to minimize what you’re experiencing, but still, it’s important to advocate for yourself. Here are a few strategies:

• Try rephrasing your question or restating your concern.
• Bring a trusted friend or family member to appointments to help advocate for you.
• Consider tracking your symptoms and writing down your questions to bring to your appointment beforehand.
• Remember that asking questions is part of your right as a patient. It doesn’t mean you’re being confrontational or questioning your provider’s expertise.

If you don’t feel comfortable with your current doctor, don’t be afraid to seek out a second opinion. You’re the expert on your own body, so if something seems “off,” trust yourself and advocate for your care. A supportive health care provider should listen to your concerns, respect your perspective, and work with you to make the best decisions for your care.

You’re not alone. Join the Outcomes4Me Community for a safe space to share your story and connect with others who share your diagnosis.