What to Do When You Can’t Get a Diagnosis

The human body works beautifully–most of the time. While we all wish we could be in perfect health 100% of the time, sometimes unexplainable symptoms come along and disrupt our daily living. Many health issues can be diagnosed by a healthcare professional. What happens, however, when your doctor says, “I don’t know”? 
Modern medicine is truly a miracle, and what we’re able to understand and cure in hospitals and clinics is a wonder. Human medicine, however, is still human, and your doctor is no exception. You may come to a doctor with a string of symptoms, and he or she may be unable to give you a satisfactory diagnosis. As the patient, you can be left feeling lost and unsure of what to do. You still have to live with the symptoms. But if you don’t know the root cause of your problem, how can you get treatment? If you or someone you love has had trouble obtaining a diagnosis, consider these next steps for getting to the root of the health problem.

Get a Second Opinion
The first doctor may have said, “I don’t know,” but the next doctor may not. Since every doctor will have a different approach, a second, third, or fourth opinion could be all you need to get to the root of your problem.

Keep a Patient Log
If the disease or health issue that you’re struggling with is just starting out, then you may not be exhibiting mature symptoms yet, making it harder to diagnose your problem. Keep a detailed diary of all your symptoms–when you feel them, and how you feel them. You can feel nausea and fatigue in different ways, so be specific about the ways those symptoms are affecting your body.

Find Out Family History

While you might know what health issues your parents faced, you may not know what your aunts, uncles, and grandparents dealt with. Finding out your family medical history can help with uncovering your own issues. Many health problems are hereditary, so if you can find a cousin or aunt with your same symptoms, ask about his or her experiences.

Try Alternative Medicine
If you didn’t have luck with a traditional doctor, alternative medicine may be the answer. Alternative medicine helps individuals deal with problems that the larger medical community sometimes ignores, such as a gluten intolerance, heavy metal poisoning, or even an unhealthy diet. Get in contact with your local alternative medicine clinic. Medina, OH, to San Francisco, CA, an alternative medicine clinic may have answers for you.

While a doctor’s failure to diagnose can be discouraging, don’t give up! Persistence and patience can eventually win out over your health issues. While you wait to see a new doctor for a second opinion, keep careful track of your symptoms, and do research online to help narrow down possibilities, so you can ask your doctor about specific issues. Your health issue doesn’t have to go undiagnosed forever. With perseverance, you can get to the bottom of your issue once and for all.