I Heard What You NSAID

Doctor: “And what about allergies?”

Me: “I’m allergic to ASA and NSAIDs, as well as—”

Doctor: “I’m sorry, what?”

Me: *slowing down* “Oh, sorry. ASA and all NSAIDs, and—”

Doctor: “I heard you. What do you mean by that?”

Me: “Uh… ASA is aspirin. I’m allergic to aspirin as well as all related non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. I’m sorry, is that not correct? I’ve been saying it that way for years.”

Doctor: “Oh yes, that’s correct. But you shouldn’t use the medical terms. Regular people get it wrong. Only doctors should use the medical terms.”

Me: “But I didn’t get it wrong.”

Doctor: “No, but it’s confusing.”