I don’t know anyone that likes going to the doctor, but at the first sign of a scratchy throat I’m in her office. I tell her about my runny nose, coughing, and constant sneezing. She makes treatment a plan based on the information I give her and then I’m on my way. But what about those times when there is something I don’t exactly want to share with her? You know, the things I’m embarrassed to talk about, the stuff I’m tempted to omit. Here are 10 things you should never lie to your doctor about.
1. Diet and Exercise
I have a love/hate relationship with diet and exercise. I love that it will make me healthy and look fabulous, but I hate the part where I have to do it. Your doctor won’t be surprised if you tell her that it isn’t your favorite thing to do either. Being honest though means that she can rule out potentially harmful causes of your weight gain and help you come up with a way to change your habits. Plus the scale will tell on you!
2. Drinking, Smoking and Drug Use
Your doctor can’t properly diagnose and treat you if you keep your excessive drinking, smoking or drug abuse from her. Maybe you don’t want to hear another lecture. Perhaps you’re worried about the ramifications of illegal activities. There are strict privacy laws between a physician and her patients and any information you share can’t be shared with anyone else.
3. Bodily Functions
One of the most uncomfortable things to discuss is body functions. Even thinking about it makes me feel icky. Disclosing odd smells, weird colors and abnormal sensations are crucial in determining the source of the problem. Sometimes it’s the result a change in diet other times it’s the sign that something more serious is wrong. Either way, she needs to know.
4. Depression and Anxiety
Everyone gets sad and anxious, but if you notice that even slapstick comedies are making you emotional, well then it might be time to tell your doctor. Depression and anxiety should be taken seriously. When left unchecked they can affect your body, lifestyle and even be deadly. Your doctor can give you resources that don’t always include medication and psychiatry.
