Dr Shailesh Singh, MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), DNB (Internal Medicine), Dr NB (Cardiology), is an Associate Consultant in the Department of Interventional Cardiology at Fortis Escorts Heart Institute. With 12 years of experience, he specializes in cardiac interventions. Read our exclusive interview here.
When a patient explains to you about their health problems, what are the most common mistakes they make in their communication?
One of the most common mistakes in communicating with doctors is the presence of biases. The root cause of this is a lack of trust in medical professionals. This skepticism is often fueled by misinformation spread by certain individuals on social media platforms. Unfortunately, the public consumes this eagerly.
What does health literacy mean to you, and why is it important in patient care?
People understanding their symptoms and understanding what I am explaining them about the treatment is health literacy in my opinion.
If a patient is knowledgeable about the basics of their health condition, how helpful is it for the overall treatment procedure?
When patients understand their health condition and symptoms, that is extremely helpful. They do not attribute it to something else or downplay it.
How much can medical misinformation impact treatment procedures?
Medical misinformation detrimentally affects treatment procedures by leading to incorrect decisions and misguided actions. This misinformation can result in improper diagnoses, inappropriate treatments, and delayed interventions, ultimately compromising patient outcomes and well-being.
What are the most common myths or misinformation you see your patients falling prey to?
In the health sector, numerous myths abound, influencing individuals’ perceptions and decisions. One such misconception advises against seeking cardiologists during heart attacks, fearing unnecessary stent procedures and displaying a broader scepticism toward conventional medical treatments. Additionally, eggs are erroneously vilified as harmful to heart health, perpetuating unfounded fears about their consumption. Some individuals mistakenly view exercise as hazardous, citing gym-related fatalities and neglecting its proven benefits. Moreover, there’s a pervasive belief in the efficacy of home remedies and alternative medicine as panaceas for all ailments, undermining the importance of evidence-based treatments. Furthermore, the over-reliance on Yoga and Pranayama as substitutes for medical interventions in heart disease management underscores the need for accurate health education. Symptoms like chest pain are often dismissed or attributed to indigestion, leading to delayed medical intervention and potential complications. Lastly, the misconception that ghee is inherently healthy contributes to misunderstandings about dietary fats and their impacts on health. Addressing and dispelling these myths is crucial for promoting informed decision-making and improving health outcomes.
What is your most common advice to patients to stay away from health misinformation online?
I generally advise my patients to adhere to the guidance of their healthcare providers rather than following recommendations from random social media health influencers.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
