Often people ask me what it is like to see a naturopathic doctor (ND). I usually tell them it is a lot like seeing a family MD. We have you fill out the regular forms, take your blood pressure and temperature. We do physical exams when necessary, such as listen to your heart or look in your ears. Sometimes we will draw blood or send you for an X-ray.
But that is where the similarity ends. After I ask a bunch of questions about your health I will turn the tables and ask you what you think. This can surprise some people. As an ND, I am interested in knowing how you relate to your symptoms and how it affects your life. This can give me important clues in how to best treat you and where lifestyle changes can be made.
Also, since I focus on treating your whole body, not just the complaint you came in for, I will ask about any other symptoms you may be having — big or small. All parts of your body are connected and communicating with one another! For example, if I treat your thyroid, it is important for me to address your heartburn and your sinus congestion as well. It is all part of you, and in my opinion, connected in some way. This also helps me pick medicine for you that treats the big picture, instead of a supplement for your thyroid, another for your congestion, and yet another for digestion. Less medicine, natural or pharmaceutical, is best in my opinion! I will select the medicine that treats the underlying cause of your imbalance so you can get the most bang for your buck!
So seeing a naturopathic physician is not much different than seeing your MD. Expect a little more talking and a lot more digging—all in an effort to uncover the cause of your health issues.
