The value of a second medical opinion

Every now and then we get some sort of illness e.g., fever, cough, back pain etc. But when anyone came to know that he/she is suffering from piles or any other related disease (like fissure, fistula, pilonidal sinus or rectal polyp) then their brain shuts off. “I got pilonidal sinus, what do I do now?” – these are the thoughts came into the mind and as a result when they leave the doctor’s clinic, they are shocked, scared, worried and frightened. Most of the patients are unclear what to do next. The right thing to do is - to get a second opinion.

Things to remember before going for a second opinion

Write down a list of questions to be asked to the doctor. Ask only relevant questions.
Take along a good friend or family member who will also hear the information your doctor is providing.
Always take all your previous medical records incuding all the prescriptions related to current illness.

A few reasons to seek a second opinion

Your diagnosis is unclear. Diagnosis is a complicated process. Many diseases share symptoms, which can make it very difficult for a physician to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.
You are diagnosed with a condition you have never heard before.
You have several medical problems.
You’re not responding well to the current treatment plan.
You have lost confidence in your medical care provider.
You feel that your doctor is NOT listening to your questions and concerns or not providing enough information for you to make an informed decision.
In many cases, your doctor may himself refer you to one of his colleague or senior doctor to get a second opinion.

What if the second doctor are say the same thing?

If you receive the same diagnosis, treatment option and prognosis, you may walk away with reassurance. The second opinion confirms the course of action.

Important

You have to understand that different doctors may have different opinion about your health condition. It can be understood by a simple fact that each one of us reacts differently to the same problem. Likewise, any doctor would assess and advice you as per his knowledge and experience. You are there to take the opinion, not to test the doctor. So, give detailed history, let them examine you thoroughly and show all your reports, so that your doctor may recommend you the best possible treatment options as per his expertise.
“One treatment does not suit everyone”. If there exists any sure-shot treatment for one illness then there would not be a long list of treatment options. So, always be open minded about which treatment option your doctor is advising you.
Always respect your doctor’s opinion even if it differs with what you were expecting.

Always remember you have every right to ask as many relevant questions as necessary to fully understand your diagnosis, treatment options, investigations required, the treatment procedure, risks, complications and the recovery process. At the same time, you should understand that different individuals may respond differently to the same treatment. No knowledgeable doctor can give you any kind of guarantee.

The final decision whether and when to have which treatment is ultimately your choice. A second opinion can provide peace of mind that the decision you make is the best one.

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