Sharon Prasad
Patient Stories of Total Person Care consultations
In our line of work, we often encounter patients with complex, interwoven issues that extend beyond their immediate physical symptoms. One such case involved a patient who consulted our team due to a long-standing cough that kept her awake at night. Despite trying numerous home remedies and over-the-counter medications, she found no relief and was growing increasingly frustrated and exhausted.
During our detailed history-taking, we delved deeper into her emotional and mental wellbeing. It was then that she revealed a significant aspect of her struggle: she was being taunted because of her weight, which was severely affecting her mental health. In an attempt to lose weight quickly, she had been skipping meals, a practice that was not only unhealthy but was also exacerbating her physical symptoms.
We recognized that her persistent cough was linked to increased acidity, which in turn was caused by her erratic eating habits and the stress she was experiencing. The disturbed sleep she was suffering from was a direct consequence of this vicious cycle.
What stood out in this interaction was the power of simply listening to her story. By taking the time to understand how she was feeling emotionally, we were able to identify the root causes of her physical symptoms. This empathetic approach made a significant impact. She felt heard and understood, which motivated her to take positive steps towards modifying her lifestyle.
With our support, she began to adopt healthier eating habits and found ways to manage her stress. As a result, her acidity decreased, and her persistent cough finally began to subside. Her sleep improved, and she started to regain her overall sense of wellbeing.
This case underscores the importance of holistic care that considers both the physical and emotional aspects of a patient’s health. It reaffirms our commitment to listening with compassion and addressing the underlying factors that contribute to our patients’ conditions. By fostering an environment of understanding and support, we can help our patients embark on a path to better health and a more balanced life
