Dr. Suzanne Kiyomi Shimoyama, MD

was a patient of this doctor from my preteen years into early adulthood, and unfortunately my experience left me feeling unheard and dismissed. For years, I brought up concerns about symptoms that were consistent with a diagnosis I now have. Instead of thoroughly evaluating those concerns, I felt there was always another reason given to explain them away. As those other explanations were addressed over time and my symptoms still persisted, my concerns continued to be dismissed rather than reconsidered. Once I became an adult, I was prescribed multiple medications, but the specific type of medication that ultimately proved effective was never offered or seriously discussed. Instead, I was repeatedly prescribed alternatives that caused significant side effects and worsened symptoms related to a separate, already diagnosed uterine and bowel condition. When I tried to explain that these medications were making my existing condition worse, I felt my concerns were brushed aside. Despite… having a documented diagnosis, I was told my symptoms were simply "bloating," which was frustrating because they were symptoms of a condition that had already been formally diagnosed. After nearly a decade of feeling dismissed, I decided to seek care from another physician. During my first appointment, my concerns were taken seriously, I received the diagnosis I had been seeking answers about for years, and I was started on the appropriate medication. The improvement in my quality of life was immediate and confirmed for me that my concerns had deserved closer attention much earlier. Every patient deserves to feel heard, to have persistent symptoms taken seriously, and to have treatment decisions based on an open discussion of risks, benefits, and all appropriate options. I only wish I had sought a second opinion much sooner.