Common Complaints

Medical dramas on TV will show the thrilling diagnosis, the intricate puzzle-solving, and the exciting rarities. These things capture our imaginations, but there's a saying within medicine: "If you hear hoofbeats, think horses and not zebras."

This means that common diseases are common; when your stomach hurts after eating a triple bacon cheeseburger, it's more likely that you have acid reflux than sudden-onset stomach cancer.

This does NOT mean you should ignore your concerns, just that the things in this section can give you some guidance for the more frequently seen issues in life. If you have lasting concerns, you should bring them up with your doctor and they should listen. If they're worth their salt, they'll acknowledge your concerns and address them. They may not order tests or prescribe medications for these potential concerns, but they will take them into account for your treatment plan.