Visiting a doctor is supposed to be a a chance to discuss health concerns and receive the best possible care. But when you think about what you tell or don’t tell your doctor, it shouldn’t surprise you to discover that many patients hold back, keeping certain details to themselves out of fear, embarrassment, or even uncertainty about their importance.
This lack of disclosure may or may not have consequences for your health that you may not have considered. Here are the top 10 things patients commonly withhold from their doctors and why full transparency is essential for good medical care.
1. Unhealthy Habits (Smoking, Drinking, and Substance Use)
Many people downplay or completely omit discussions about their use of tobacco, alcohol, or recreational drugs. A study published in JAMA Network Open found that 60-80 per cent of patients admitted to withholding information about lifestyle habits, primarily due to fear of being judged. Yet, these habits can impact treatment plans, medication effectiveness, and long-term health risks.
2. Medication Non-Adherence
Doctors prescribe medications expecting patients to follow the dosage and schedule, but many don’t. According to The Canadian Pharmacists Association, approximately 25 per cent of Canadian patients never get their prescriptions filled, often due to the costs.
Of those that do get their prescriptions filled, 30 per cent will not take them as directed, either forgetting, stopping too early. Not disclosing this to a doctor can lead to unnecessary dosage adjustments or ineffective treatments.
3. Symptoms That Seem “Minor”
People often brush off symptoms they consider insignificant, not realizing they could be red flags for more serious conditions. For example, persistent fatigue might indicate an underlying thyroid disorder, diabetes, or even early-stage cancer.
A study from the American Journal of Medicine found that people frequently underreport symptoms like dizziness, mild chest pain, or unusual skin changes, which can delay early diagnosis.
4. Mental Health Struggles
Despite growing awareness about mental health, many people hesitate to discuss anxiety, depression, or stress with their doctors.
The stigma surrounding mental illness remains a major factor, with 60% of patients reporting they don’t disclose their emotional struggles to healthcare providers, according to research cited in an article by the Mental Health Commission of Canada. However, mental health affects physical health, and leaving it unaddressed can worsen overall well-being.
5. Sexual Health and Dysfunction
Sexual health remains a sensitive topic for many patients, leading to avoidance of discussing concerns like erectile dysfunction, pain during intercourse, or changes in libido.
Many Canadians never mention it to their doctors, often assuming it’s a normal part of life or they feel embarrassed. Yet, sexual health issues can often be linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or hormonal imbalances.
6. Use of Alternative or Over-the-Counter Treatments
From herbal supplements to essential oils, over half of Canadians have experimented with alternative treatments without informing their doctors. While there are some evidence-backed studies supporting their effectiveness in certain cases, medical doctors often don’t have the necessary training to discuss them.
In a number of cases, these remedies can interact with prescribed medications, making it crucial for doctors to know about them.
7. Financial Concerns About Treatment
Many patients do not admit they are struggling to afford medication, tests, or procedures. According to the American Journal of Public Health, one in three Americans reports skipping medical treatment due to cost concerns. Not disclosing financial constraints can result in doctors prescribing expensive medications when more affordable alternatives may be available.
While this is an issue more common in the U.S., Canadians who do not have employer-backed health insurance plans or private insurance to cover the cost of certain uninsured treatments or medications may face similar challenges.
8. Fear of Insurance Reporting and Medical Record Privacy
Some people worry that disclosing certain health issues, such as mental illness or substance use, may impact their insurance premiums or coverage. A study in BMC Health Services Research found that nearly 11 per cent of people withheld health information due to privacy concerns.
While doctors prioritize patient confidentiality, this fear prevents full transparency and can lead to gaps in medical history.
9. History of Trauma or Abuse
Disclosing past or current experiences of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse is difficult, yet these experiences can profoundly impact physical and mental health.
Research in The Journal of Family Violence suggests that up to 70 per cent of abuse survivors do not disclose their experiences to their healthcare providers, often due to fear, shame, or distrust. Doctors can offer resources and support, but only if they are aware of these underlying issues.
10. Disagreement With Medical Advice
Patients sometimes leave appointments unconvinced by their doctor’s recommendations but don’t voice their concerns. With the increase in patient access to AI and Google generated medical information, patients are more likely to feel empowered to take decision-making into their own hands.
The problem is that patients often cannot separate well-researched and supported health information from that which is totally or even partially fabricated. Honest communication allows doctors to adjust treatments or clarify misunderstandings, leading to better outcomes.
Why Honesty Matters
Doctors are not there to judge; they are there to help. Keeping secrets can prevent accurate diagnoses, delay necessary treatments, and increase health risks. People should feel empowered to have open, honest discussions with their healthcare providers. If certain topics feel too difficult to discuss, writing down concerns before an appointment or bringing a trusted friend or family member can help facilitate the conversation.
The bottom line? The more doctors know, the better they can care for their patients. While there’s no guarantee that it will make a difference in your care, there are enough instances where it will, so it’s worth reconsidering.
~Read more from The Health Insider~
- Top 10 Secrets Patients Withhold from Their Doctors and Why It’s Worth Reconsidering
Many people withhold critical health information from their doctors, however doing so could backfire in ways you may not have considered. - Medical Gaslighting – Is It Really A Thing?
More people say their symptoms are dismissed, but is AI helping or hurting? With healthcare under pressure, the truth isn’t so simple. - AI Mental Health Companions: Help or Hype?
AI mental health companions promise 24/7 mental health support, but can they replace therapy with a human? Discover their benefits, risks, and best uses.
The information provided on TheHealthInsider.ca is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. TheHealthInsider.ca advises consulting a medical professional or healthcare provider when seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.