People in the medical field, including doctors, nurses, and EMTs, witness firsthand the consequences of health-related choices. Recently, users on Reddit shared their daily habits that have shifted because of what they’ve seen with their patients, offering valuable insights for healthier living. Here are some of their thoughts:
1. “I will never go to a chiropractor or recommend anyone else to see one.”
2. “In long-term care, I observe the effects of life choices. Often, these choices blend excessive drug use, alcohol consumption, tobacco, and poor diet and exercise. It’s shocking to see patients on oxygen still craving cigarettes.”
— AreYouOkay123
“As a student, I witnessed a patient catch fire after lighting a cigarette while on high-flow oxygen.”
— ACaffeinatedWandress
3. “I started wearing earplugs at concerts after seeing older individuals struggle with their hearing.”
4. “As a paramedic in my late 20s, I drank heavily every weekend. After engaging daily with intoxicated individuals, I saw the harmful impacts: hangovers, injuries, and long-term health issues. I significantly reduced my drinking and haven’t touched alcohol in two years.”
— Stouler
“As an ICU nurse, witnessing liver failure is one of the most horrific ways to die.”
— NurseRatchettt
“I worked at a surgery facility and observed individuals canceling their surgery because they couldn’t refrain from drinking for 24 hours prior. It’s astounding.”
— MinimumHelicopter825
5. “As a dental hygienist, I didn’t start flossing until hygiene school. I also use interdental brushes and a Waterpik. Many, including other healthcare workers, fail to see the connection between oral bacteria and overall health. It’s not just an isolated issue—what happens in our mouths can directly affect our systemic health.”
6. “I refuse to live to work. In elderly care, I’ve never met a patient who expressed wanting to work more. I cherish my work-life balance, and despite it being less glamorous, I’m grateful for the connections I have with my patients.”
“There are more lucrative paths I could’ve taken, but giving up my essence for prestige isn’t worth it. I see the regret in my patients, and it’s a reminder to appreciate what I have.”
— TheSmilingDoc
7. “I emphasize preventive medicine. Many patients only see a doctor when they’re sick, ignoring the benefits of routine check-ups and preventive measures like exercise, healthy eating, and recommended screenings. Preventive care is crucial.”
8. “As an orthopedic nurse, I stress that falls, even from standing, can result in serious injuries. Please take care to avoid accidents, be mindful of slips in winter, and ensure elderly friends are safe.”
“Also, if you have joint pain, don’t ignore it. Go see your orthopedic specialist—you might avoid more extensive procedures later.”
— speedystring
9. “I will not ride a motorcycle.”
10. “Many patients turn to private telehealth for prescriptions without a full understanding of their health history. This can lead to dangerous situations. It’s better to work closely with your family doctor to manage your health.”
— TurquoisySunflower
11. “I won’t have large dogs as pets. Too many elderly individuals suffer injuries from their large dogs.”
12. “I never skip sunscreen. Skin cancer is a serious concern.”
— Comfortable_Cup4185
“I completely agree. I lost my partner to melanoma; diagnosed in his 30s and gone by 40.”
— BestLingonberryPie
13. “As a physician, I see so many who accept limited mobility and weight gain as aging, believing it’s unavoidable. It doesn’t have to be like that.”
14. “I’m an neurologist. I’m aware that my phone use may harm my focus long-term, and it’s troubling how addictive it has become.”
— DoctorOfWhatNow
15. “As a health policy researcher, I always get my flu shot. Last year showed us just how devastating flu outbreaks can be. It’s vital to protect ourselves.”
16. “Trying to play sports like a pro as an amateur can be harmful. An initial minor injury can lead to serious joint and spine issues later. Healthy, consistent exercise is far more beneficial.”
— Substantial_Raise914
“I often joke that adult men’s softball is the most dangerous sport—people push themselves too hard without warming up.”
— 50yoWhiteGuy
17. “In my youth, helmets were rarely worn while biking. Now, working in orthopedics, I’d never bike without one and will teach my kids the same lesson—insights from seeing injuries are profound.”
18. “Having removed an ID card from someone in an accident, I’ll never wear anything around my neck while driving. It’s dangerous.”
— Loltima
19. “Ignoring proper care—like stretching, footwear, and addressing injuries—is a mistake I’ve learned from. Pain will result from neglecting the body.”
20. “Besides the obvious, seeking perfection can create stress. Patients who strictly adhere to health routines often struggle when they fall ill, leading to difficulties managing their health and mental wellbeing. Balance is key.”
“It’s not wrong to enjoy life and indulge occasionally. A beer in the summer sun is perfectly fine.”
— Marchepane
