Written By: Pavitra Sampath | Updated : March 6, 2014 2:24 PM IST
As you wait patiently for the doctor to tell you and your loved ones about your illness, hoping against hope that everything is alright, the doctor speaks, but you don't understand a single word! Packed with medical mumbo- jumbo doctors usually speak a language that nobody but their own peers can understand. A patient is usually left absolutely blank after a consultation, and walks out with the blind belief that the doctor knows what he is talking about. We at Health.india.com are going to attempt to explain one term at a time, so that your next visit to the doctor is much smoother.Last week we explained what the term 'convalescence' means, this week are are going to talk about the word 'prognosis'.
Imagine this, you have been diagnosed with an illness and your doctor tells you that your 'prognosis' is good. Confused if you should be happy or not? Well, the word 'prognosis' does not mean another illness, it is a term used by doctors to describe the likelihood of you recovering from your present illness. Once the doctor has diagnosed your disease and gives you a plan for treatment he will then tell you how the treatment will help you and how fast you can expect to get better.
In some cases it may be upsetting to get a particular prognosis, which might alter your life. It is important to remember at this point, that you must ask your doctor about the changes you and your family members or caretakers might have to make. Be sure to ask him/her about changes in the following spheres of your life:
These limitations usually decrease over time, and become more manageable. Ask your doctor about any added measures you might have to take to make your disability more manageable and the kind of medication you might have to take.
Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.
