If you have an embarrassing health problem such as hemorrhoids, a rash on your genitals, bad breath or very sweaty feet and hands, you may avoid visiting your doctor because you are embarrassed by the condition or you fear being examined. However, by avoiding seeing your GP, you could be putting your health at risk. Below is a guide to 3 things you should do when planning to see your doctor about an embarrassing condition.
Write things down
Before you set off on your way to the GP's surgery, you should take a minute to write down the problems you are experiencing, how long you have had the problem and the steps you have taken to treat it. Having the symptoms written down will help you to stay focused when you sit down in front of the doctor. If you feel too shy once you are in the consulting room, you can always slip the paper across the GP's desk so they can read it.
Answer any questions honestly
Once you have told your doctor what the problem is, it is likely they will have some questions for you. You should listen carefully to any questions, answering them as honestly as you can. While you may be tempted to lie to your doctor in order to avoid embarrassment, it is important that you realise that doing so could place your health at risk. A GP can only act on the information you provide. If you lie about having unprotected sex or the frequency of symptoms, you could cause the doctor to discount something which could be the cause of the problem. For example, bleeding from the anus could be a result of haemorrhoids, but in some cases, it could also be a result of bowel or rectal cancer. If you lie about the colour or quantity of blood, this could result in you not being tested for cancer.
Don't try and cover symptoms up
If you are having problems with bad breath, sweaty feet or smelly genitals, you should not attempt to cover up the condition before you see your doctor. If you use a lot of mouthwash, apply lots of talcum powder to your feet or apply perfume or aftershave to your genitals, it could mess up any tests which the doctor wishes to perform.
Remember, your GP is a medical professional who will be used to dealing with embarrassing conditions so book an appointment today.
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