What Do You Say When People Ask Rude Questions About Your Condition?

Medically Reviewed by Jabeen Begum, MD on November 03, 2021
1 min read

"What's wrong with you?" is a question no one with a chronic condition or disability wants to hear, especially if it's coming from a stranger. That doesn't stop some people from asking rude questions, though, when they meet someone with a disability or noticeable health issue.

It's tempting to snap, "That's a rude thing to ask," and try to shame the ill-mannered person into silence. Sometimes, that may be the best way to handle the situation. People who are being nasty or mean don't deserve the courtesy of an answer.

There are some people, on the other hand, who are trying to ask an honest question but don't know how to phrase it. When that happens—particularly if the person asking is a child—you might be able to give an answer that teaches them about your condition. What's more, you might be able to help the person be more sensitive in the future. 

Let us know: How do you handle it when people ask rude questions about your health?