What do you do if your doctor downplays your symptoms?

August 3, 2019 (Chapter 15 Medical Appointments and its Challenges in my book)

I think that at least once when I was at a primary care doctor's office, I have felt misunderstood by a physician assistant. I was there because of an illness and I explained to the Physician assistant about some of the problems that I have. I was trying to advocate for myself and let her know what I needed from her. I asked some questions and she answered them for me. I told her that sometimes I don't understand things and it is helpful for me if she makes sure that I understood what she said. She said that I needed to bring a piece of paper to my appointment. When I left this appointment, I felt like I just wanted to scream because she obviously didn't get it!