Are You Honest With Your Doc?

Emily Senay Offers Advice

(CBS)  Honesty is always the best policy, especially when talking with your doctor. But some patients aren't always frank with their physicians. And failure to be completely open could jeopardize your health.

The Early Show medical correspondent Dr. Emily Senay offers advice on why it's important to tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth when you're in the examining room.

There are many reasons why patients aren't always completely open with their physicians, Senay says. Some people think of their doctors as judges and don't want to say anything that will disappoint them. Another reason is that patients sometimes are afraid the doctor will tell them something they don't want to hear. But the point is, if you are not honest with your doctor, you are not going to get the treatment that you need.

The following are her tips:

Don't Be Shy About Your Body
Many patients are very shy about exposing or discussing their body during an examination - especially areas that are often referred to as "private parts" such as the breasts and pelvic regions. But there is no reason to be embarrassed. Doctors are used to dealing with patients of all different body types and are not going to pass judgement on you.

It is also very important to discuss any digestive problems you may have. For some reason, when it comes to bodily function issues, people clam up. But we have all had digestive disruptions in the past and just because you find them distasteful, your doctor certainly won't.

Discuss Mental Health Issues
In this country, there is still a great stigma about mental health. But the mental illness is nothing to be embarrassed or shy about. If you don't take care of your mental health, there is a very good chance that your physical health will suffer as well. And remember, there are many medications out there that treat mental illnesses.

Admit Your Vices
Nobody is perfect. We may occassionally drink too much, sneak a cigarette or eat too much. And it's important to discuss this with your doctor. Again he or she isn't going to judge you. Remember, even a little bit of alcohol can have an adverse effect on any medications you may be taking, and cigarettes can raise the risk of stroke in women on certain birth control pills. And of course, we all know about the health risks of eating too much. So speak up.

Discuss Medications & Supplements You're Taking
Many people take herbal supplements these days without talking to their doctor. They may read about them on the internet or see a magazine article about them. The thing is, there is very little definitive information on the safety of these products and they can end up doing some real damage. So don't even think about self-medicating.

Also, if you are prescribed medicines from different physicians, you need to be sure to that everyone is on the same page. Medications can counteract each other and can cause serious harm.

Be Candid About Your Sex Life
Don't be afraid to discuss your sex life with your physician. It's nothing he or she hasn't heard before. If you experience pain during intercourse, it's something you need to talk about. Also, if you've contracted a sexually transmitted disease or think you have, this is also something to discuss. Your doctor wants to help you, not pass judgement on you.