Misdiagnosed or Dismissed? The One Question That Could Change Your Healthcare Experience

I'm sure many of you can relate to this scenario. You have several symptoms that are becoming bothersome, so you schedule an appointment to visit your healthcare provider.

You list off your concerns: weight gain, constant fatigue, irregular bowel movements, and at times constipation, low energy, difficulty getting to sleep. Could it be menopause or something else?

Too often, especially for women over 50, symptoms are brushed off as “normal aging” or “just stress.” But what if your doctor is missing something?

And that's why you want to ask your doctor this one question: "What's your differential diagnosis?"

What is a Differential Diagnosis?

The differential diagnosis is one of the most potent tools taught in medicine. More importantly, it’s something you should be aware of and ask about.

A differential diagnosis is a list of possible conditions or causes that could be responsible for a patient’s symptoms. It’s a methodical process that providers use to rule out illnesses or narrow down the possibilities before settling on a final diagnosis.

Think of it like detective work. The symptoms you present to the doctor are the clues, and the differential diagnosis is the list of potential suspects.

The more thorough the investigation, the more accurate the final answer. 

For example, if a woman comes in reporting fatigue, weight gain, and brain fog, a provider considering a differential diagnosis might explore:

• Hypothyroidism

• Menopause or perimenopause

• Depression

• Sleep apnea

• Vitamin deficiencies (B12, D3, iron)

• Autoimmune disorders

Without this step, it’s easy to miss something important—and unfortunately, women and people of color are statistically more likely to be misdiagnosed or dismissed.

Why It Matters—Especially for Women Over 50

Women in midlife face a unique set of health challenges. Hormonal shifts, changes in metabolism, stress from caregiving or careers, and years of under-addressed symptoms can all surface at once.

Symptoms often overlap between conditions. You may feel “off” but not know why, and you deserve honest answers, not assumptions.

A healthcare provider using differential diagnosis offers care that is:

• Thorough – You don't feel dismissed or rushed.

• Personalized – Based on your complete clinical picture.

• Evidence-based– Tests, history, and symptoms are all considered.

• Safer – It helps avoid misdiagnoses and treatment delays.

What Happens When There’s No Differential Diagnosis?

When providers skip this process, you may:

• Receive unnecessary or incorrect treatment

• Be misdiagnosed

• Experience worsening symptoms

• Miss the early signs of serious conditions

A study published in BMJ Quality & Safety found that diagnostic errors contribute to nearly 12 million outpatient harms every year in the U.S. Many of these are preventable.

How You Can Be Your Own Advocate

You don’t have to be confrontational—just curious and informed. Here are a few questions to ask at your next appointment:

• “What conditions are you considering based on my symptoms?”

• “Are there other possibilities we should rule out?”

• “What steps are you taking to confirm this diagnosis?”

• “Are you working with a differential diagnosis?”

If your provider seems unwilling to explore other possibilities or answer your questions, it may be time for a second opinion.

When to Call in an Independent Health Advocate

Let’s be honest—advocating for yourself isn’t always easy. When you’re not feeling well or aren’t sure what to ask, it helps to have someone by your side.

As an independent health advocate, I utilize my over 30 years of clinical knowledge to help women:

• Prepare for appointments and ask the right questions

• Interpret lab results and imaging

• Navigate referrals and second opinions

• Understand their options

• Feel supported—not dismissed

Final Thoughts: One Question Can Change Everything

Asking “Are you working with a differential diagnosis?” might feel awkward at first, but it’s one of the most empowering things you can do for your health.

You deserve a healthcare provider who takes the time to think through all the possibilities, not just the quickest or most convenient answer.

If you’re feeling stuck, dismissed, or overwhelmed, I’m here to help.

✨Let's see if we can work together.

📩 Book your FREE Support Strategy Session today and take the first step toward more empowered, informed care.