In a recent episode of The Podcast by KevinMD, neurologist Carolyn Larkin Taylor recounted her distressing ordeal with medical gaslighting, which almost cost her life. Taylor, an experienced neurologist with over 30 years in the field, detailed how her long-time gynecologist incorrectly attributed her cancer symptoms to stress, resulting in a perilous delay in her diagnosis. Her narrative sheds light on the harmful effects of medical gaslighting and emphasizes the necessity for patients to advocate for themselves.

During her discussion, Taylor explained how she initially placed her trust in her gynecologist, who downplayed her persistent symptoms even after conducting standard tests. The gynecologist’s dismissive demeanor, worsened by her approaching retirement, made Taylor feel ignored and insecure. This situation, unfortunately, is all too common in instances of medical gaslighting, nearly leading to tragic outcomes.

Refusing to ignore her instincts, Taylor pursued a second opinion at an academic institution. This choice resulted in the accurate diagnosis of endometrial cancer, which, fortunately, was detected in its early stages. Her experience serves as a stark reminder of the importance for patients, particularly women, to heed their intuition and seek second opinions when their worries are overlooked.

Taylor stresses that medical gaslighting is not always a result of malice but can stem from cultural biases or physician dissatisfaction. She urges patients to engage in open communication with their healthcare providers if they are unhappy with their treatment and to feel empowered to question medical decisions. Her story powerfully illustrates the need for patient empowerment and the importance of physicians staying receptive and responsive to patients’ concerns.

Alongside her personal experiences, Taylor’s work, including her book “Whispers of the Mind: A Neurologist’s Memoir,” addresses universal themes such as grief, loss, and human resilience. Her reflections remind us of the significant impact that attentive and compassionate healthcare can have on patient outcomes and the importance of closing the gaps in understanding between patients and healthcare professionals.