Understanding your health challenges

 There's a hesitation for many of us to fully understand the health challenges we face, but when we make the time to understand those issues well, we have a greater chance of living well with those challenges, or even better, eliminating those challenges. 

How do we navigate the complex landscape of health challenges? Specifically, what can we do? I am writing about this today as I am watching a number of friends and family members navigating health challenges great and small. I've learned a lot from them, and when I attend a medical appointment with a loved one today, I'll think about those lessons and apply what I've learned. 

First, don't be afraid to ask questions that illustrate your ignorance about the subject. Starting with simple question that often define the illness are essential. So, today when we attend the appointment, I'll have paper and pencil ready to write down the answers as I ask these questions:

  1. How would you define this illness?
  2. What stage is this illness at?
  3. Is this illness progressing as you would expect?
  4. Are there any surprises with respect to this illness?
Once we establish a baseline of understanding, I hope we'll ask these questions too:
  1. Are the current medications, the best medications and doses for this illness?
  2. Is the new medication available a fit for my loved one's situation?
  3. What lifestyle actions and supports would you suggest related to this illness?
  4. Can we eliminate this illness, and if we can't eliminate it, how can we stall its progression?
  5. Are there any studies, therapies, or supports that may help out? 
Sometimes medical staff don't like questions. At times, their responses may be condescending, harsh, and frustrated. That can happen for all kinds of reasons. Perhaps the medical professional is overwhelmed, rushed for time, or simple lacking a humane attitude or sensitivity? If that happens, don't let that prevent you from asking the question you have. It's your right to understand the illness as well as you can in order to do your best to find reprieve. 

Today we'll get to the appointment eary so we're relaxed and ready to hear the news. I'll listen carefully and take notes as we ask questions. We already have a fair understanding of the illness, and we will probably learn more which will help us to do our best by this issue in the days ahead. 

We all have to take our health seriously and understand the issues we face with as much specificity as we can. This is one way to help ourselves live our best lives. Onward.