Second Opinion

When I was stationed in Lucknow, my elder son, who was only about 9 or 10 years old, started experiencing nasal obstruction, a sore throat, and fever. As he had tonsil issues earlier too, I took him to the best known ENT specialist, who examined him, prescribed some tablets and a syrup to relieve the symptoms, but informed me that my son had inflamed adenoids that would need surgery.

The thought of someone so young undergoing an operation was distressing, and I left the clinic troubled, silently contemplating the situation. Thankfully, after three or four days, he seemed to recover.

However, the issue continued to weigh on me. Then, one day, my younger son complained of severe ear pain, so intense that he wouldn’t let anyone touch his ears. Initially, I considered taking him to the same ENT specialist, but then I decided to seek out a different specialist, even though his clinic was quite far from where we lived. I felt it was worth the effort. After examining my younger son, the doctor prescribed painkillers and suggested surgery for his ears as well, given the severity of the inflammation.

I returned home feeling concerned, uncertain about what to do, as I wasn’t inclined to have him undergo surgery. Around this time, I received an invitation from one of my former landlords in Indore to attend his elder son’s wedding. Our relationship with the landlord’s family was so warm that we felt necessary to attend.

So, I took leave and travelled to Indore with my spouse and both sons. While there, I decided to take them to the ENT specialist I used to consult regularly when we lived in Indore.

The doctor asked if my elder son was still having issues with his tonsils. I explained that he wasn’t experiencing consistent problems, though he occasionally had pain and fever. After examining him, the doctor reassured us that there was no major concern. He noted that children often get bacterial inflammations that can be managed with medication, avoiding the need for surgery.

Regarding my younger son’s ear problem, the doctor informed me that there was a significant buildup of earwax. He applied some drops to soften the wax and manually removed most of it. He also prescribed an ear drop for regular home use to help with periodic wax removal.

Then it was my wife’s turn. She had experienced some pelvic pain, and when it continued for two days, I took her to a well-known gynecologist in the city. After examining her and conducting some tests, the doctor called me in and asked me to pay an advance for a hysterectomy. We were both shocked by her diagnosis and decision.

We returned home and asked our neighbours if they could recommend a reliable gynecologist for a second opinion. Eventually, my wife visited another gynecologist, bringing along the prescription and test reports from the first doctor. 

This new doctor ordered a few additional tests, including a Pap smear, and concluded that there was no need for a hysterectomy. Although some small fibroids were present, they could be managed with medication, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes. This was a great relief for us.

I, too, faced a health concern. During one of my annual check-ups in Indore, an ophthalmologist noted some signs that could indicate glaucoma and recommended a month of medication to further assess the condition. My wife suggested that I consult a well-known ophthalmologist—who had previously performed her mother’s cataract surgery—before starting any medication.

I went to him and clearly told him why I had gone to him. He examined me with his tools and told me that prima facie there was no sign of glaucoma, but if I want to get confirmed, I’ll have to undergo surface tension test. Being worried, I took that test and finally he said that I had no sign of glaucoma.

Through these four personal experiences with medical advice and treatments, I’ve learned an important lesson: it’s essential to consult with an honest and reputable doctor first. If surgery—whether major or minor—is suggested, seeking a second, and if necessary, even a third opinion is crucial.

Some doctors and hospitals operate like businesses, often focussed on maximising profits. Some hospitals even set hospitalisation targets for their doctors, similar to corporate sales targets. This can lead doctors, who once swore an ethical oath, to adopt unethical practices. So, we need to stay vigilant against such malpractices.

Obtaining a second opinion before undergoing surgery is particularly important, as a surgery, once done, becomes a lifelong part of your body. Some key benefits of a second opinion include:

1. Confirming the diagnosis and identifying the most effective surgical approach.

2. Assessing potential risks and complications.

3. Exploring alternative treatment options.

4. Avoiding unnecessary surgery.

Remember, seeking a second opinion is your right as a patient. Don’t hesitate to take control of your healthcare and well-being.

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–Kaushal Kishore 

image: pinterest