Tag: Medical gaslighting

According to one 2023 study, 94.4% of patients diagnosed with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) had previously been misdiagnosed with a psychiatric illness by a non-specialist. This staggering statistic highlights the complex issues contributing to **why EDS is so controversial**, often pitting patient experience against medical skepticism.

With the average doctor's appointment lasting less than 19 minutes, it can feel like a race against time to effectively communicate your health concerns. Learning **how to get a doctor to believe you** and take your symptoms seriously is a vital skill for patient empowerment and better health outcomes.

According to a Rutgers Health review of 151 qualitative studies, symptom invalidation by doctors is common and can cause psychological damage and healthcare avoidance. If you have ever felt unheard, you may be left to wonder, "Why do doctors ignore your symptoms?" The reasons can be complex, involving systemic issues and biases, but understanding them is the first step toward effective self-advocacy.

According to the UK's Office for National Statistics, 150 deaths were partly or fully attributed to Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) between 2001 and 2021. However, answering the question of how many people have died of ME CFS is complex, as official figures likely represent a significant undercount.

According to a study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, physician-patient communication failures are a frequent and distressing issue. This can be especially concerning when you find yourself asking, **What if my doctor doesn't believe my symptoms?**

While most healthcare providers are dedicated to patient well-being, studies show that a significant number of patients feel unheard or ignored during medical appointments. So, **why would a doctor ignore a patient**? The reasons are complex and can stem from systemic pressures, provider-side issues, and communication breakdowns, all of which can have serious health consequences. This guide will explore the contributing factors and provide actionable strategies to help you navigate these challenging situations.

According to research, patient dissatisfaction is a significant driver in changing healthcare providers. For a patient, understanding **what does it mean to be dismissed by a doctor** involves recognizing a formal termination and the more subtle, yet equally harmful, practice of having your concerns minimized or ignored.

According to a 2025 review of over 11,000 individuals, patients who feel dismissed by their doctor can suffer significant psychological damage and delay seeking future care. This common and harmful phenomenon has specific names: medical gaslighting and symptom invalidation, and understanding these terms is the first step toward effective self-advocacy and better health outcomes.