Core Concepts
Overweight and obese women often face dismissive attitudes and misdiagnosis from healthcare providers, leading to delayed or inadequate treatment.
Abstract
The author recounts a recent experience where she was hospitalized for a racing heart, which was ultimately determined to be a non-issue. However, the author notes that as a fat woman, healthcare providers often attribute any medical concern to her weight, without properly investigating the root cause.
The author highlights the pervasive bias and stigma that overweight and obese women face in the healthcare system. Providers may quickly dismiss their symptoms or concerns, assuming they are solely due to the patient's weight, rather than thoroughly examining the issue. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, misdiagnosis, and inadequate treatment, putting the patient's health at risk.
The author emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to approach overweight and obese patients with empathy, objectivity, and a commitment to providing comprehensive, unbiased care. Relying on weight-based assumptions can have serious consequences for the patient's wellbeing and long-term health outcomes.
Stats
The author's heart rate reached 190 beats per minute during the incident described.
Quotes
"It's been a month since I woke up one Sunday with my heart racing."
"Learned my heart is nice and healthy, despite the troponin-inducing 190 heart rate."