Why silence is bad for your health

Silence isn't golden when it comes to your healthcare. In this Health Smarts video, Robin Miller, MD, discusses why you should always tell your doctor about symptoms like shortness of breath and never be afraid to ask questions.

Transcript

00:00

Don't rely on Dr. Google. Smart patients call or email and ask. You think that if the doctor didn't bring it up,

00:06

it's not important. We can do lots of things. But mind reading isn't one of them. [UPBEAT MUSIC]

00:25

Hi. I'm Dr. Miller. Do you tell your doctor everything he or she needs to know? Not speaking up can be bad for your health.

00:33

Don't fall into one of these silent patient traps. You think something isn't worth bothering anyone about.

00:39

Nagging pain and shortness of breath are just two symptoms that people are tempted to ignore, that they could be signs of something more serious.

00:47

Let your doctor know. You think your appointment's over when you leave. Too many people leave their appointments and then say,

00:54

I wish I'd asked whether I can have wine, when I can have sex, and other essentials. Don't rely on Dr. Google.

01:01

Smart patients call or email and ask. You think that if the doctor didn't bring it up, it's not important.

01:08

We can do lots of things. But mind reading isn't one of them. We don't know that you're having erectile dysfunction or chest

01:14

pains unless you tell us. If it's bothering you, mention it. Speaking up may be the healthiest move you've made.

01:21

For more smart patient strategies, watch all our health tips right here. [AUDIO LOGO]