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Real members of MyObesityTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyObesityTeam Member asked a question 💭
State College, PA

When asking a question about upping medication dose for my Meloxicam for my arthritis, she said, "Have you tried losing weight." I had another endocrinologist tell me that all I had to do was lose weight, when I was asking him a question. It hurts me that I feel these providers are dismissing my questions and I leave the office crying afterwards. I just want compassionate care. I get scared and in a heightened state of anxiety upon Dr. visits, I never feel like I am being listened to. Does… read more

May 5, 2025
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A MyObesityTeam Member

I had good experience with my doctors and they helped me in losing the weight and they are very supportive of me the doctor I have now he don't really say a lot a lot about weight unless I bring it up but every now and then he will mention it but it's nothing to get mad about cuz he knows my weight goes up and down and he has mentioned that a few times but he's pretty laid back and he's a good doctor I had a few in the past not so nice doctors that laughed at me and they were bigger than me and telling me I needed to lose weight but I just shook it off and went along I guess it depends on the doctor and they give you good information on a weight loss
I'm just glad my doctor don't push pills because a lot of doctors do I had a doctor come to my house and that was the first thing he brought up was weight loss shots since he wasn't my doctor I would have to go through my doctor and I already know my doctor isn't going to say yes because he is the kind of doctor that wants you to lose weight on your own and with my past life experience of taking diet pills I won't do a shot because once you stop it the weight comes right back and more it's just a tool so why not just do it the right way eat healthy and move so that's what I do

May 6, 2025 (edited)
A MyObesityTeam Member

Unfortunately, so many obese persons have become very sensitive to this issue and find it offensive for others to refer to it. But it helps to realize that obesity is a health issue just as being diabetic, etc. A good doctor will address this. I just expected my doctor to mention this as I understand the impact obesity has on one's health. One needs to know that obesity is the cause of other medical issues or worsens others. Treating obesity can lesson or even eliminate many other health conditions. And many patients no longer have the need for many medications they were prior prescribed. Granted a lot depends on a physician "bed side manner". I was opened minded about me being obese and appreciated I had a few doctors that were able to communicate concerning this and were helpful in aiding me in my weight loss journey. I was having pain in my lower back and right knee. I have always walked outdoors a few miles every day and this was becoming difficult due to the pain. A rheumatologist diagnosed this as osteoarthritis. Yep, mentioned that I could greatly lessen the pain with weight loss. Now 50lbs lighter, I very seldom have any pain anymore and I still walk outdoors at least 2 miles every day. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010. Fortunately caught very early. Only 5 days of radiation, no chemo , etc. but was told that this type of cancer is "fed" by fat type hormones. More common in obese women. Plus also diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes is high risk in my immediate family. I have lost my dad and 3 brothers to heart attacks. 2 were diabetic and 2 had prior strokes. I was pushing my luck with these issues due to my weight. As was on 3 medications for high blood pressure, cholesterol was high , and was border line diabetic. My highest weight ever was 216lbs at 5'5" tall. I managed to lose down to 150lbs but now last 2 years maintaining around 160-165lbs. But doctors feel the "buffer weight " is fine for my age 79yrs old. As I am very healthy . All lab tests in normal range, Blood pressure normal. No heart, artery, etc. issues. And doctor's saw I owe my weight loss to getting healthier. So please don't take offense at doctors when they mention the need to lose weight. I would rather have a doctor that is concerned with this instead of one that just keeps prescribing medications for health issues that will only get worse if one doesn't lose the weight. A good doctor will be willing to support a patient that is sincere about wanting help in losing weight. My doctors were great in advice and support. Still are.

May 6, 2025 (edited)
A MyObesityTeam Member

@A MyObesityTeam Member, it's truly disheartening to feel dismissed or unheard during medical visits, especially when seeking help for specific concerns. 😞 Many, including myself, have experienced similar situations when discussing health concerns with doctors. Finding a health professional who offers compassionate care and truly listens can make a big difference. You deserve to be treated with respect and to have your concerns addressed. Sending you support and hoping for better experiences ahead. 💙

May 6, 2025
MyObesityTeam

Yes, many people with obesity experience weight stigma and dismissive treatment in healthcare settings. This kind of treatment can be traumatic and make it difficult to seek necessary medical care. Your feelings are valid, and you deserve healthcare providers who take your concerns seriously and treat you with respect.

If Show Full Answer

Yes, many people with obesity experience weight stigma and dismissive treatment in healthcare settings. This kind of treatment can be traumatic and make it difficult to seek necessary medical care. Your feelings are valid, and you deserve healthcare providers who take your concerns seriously and treat you with respect.

If your doctor ignores your concerns or makes you feel dismissed, it's completely appropriate to seek out a different healthcare provider who will listen and provide compassionate care. You have the right to receive proper medical attention regardless of your weight. To find more compassionate care, consider:
- Preparing questions in advance of appointments
- Bringing a trusted support person to appointments
- Looking specifically for healthcare providers who emphasize evidence-based, compassionate care
- Being direct about your needs for respectful treatment
- Seeking out doctors who will take time to listen to your concerns

Remember that you're not alone in this experience, and you deserve healthcare providers who will work with you as partners in your health journey.

May 5, 2025

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