Our Ask An Angel correspondent is Arlene Petersen, Certified Senior Advisor and Life Care Navigation Specialist in the area of senior home care.
Q: Sometimes I feel rushed during my doctor visits, and I forget to discuss important things with him. I actually get a little nervous. How do I relax so that I donāt miss talking about what is on my mind?
A: Going to the doctor can be quite an ordeal. Iāve often found myself feeling exactly the way you do. Time is important for both me and my doctor, so I came up with a system that works for me, helping me make the most out of my appointments. The key for me has been to write my thoughts down so that I donāt overlook any concerns I have. The way I do this is by keeping a notebook handy and preparing for my visit. First, I make sure I have my medication(s) listed in my book. If keeping a book is too difficult for you, then make sure you have a bag designated to bring with you to your visit. Bring your pill bottles with you so that you can discuss any medication concerns with your doctor. Remember to bring or list over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are taking, as well. It is so important for your doctor to know ALL the medicines you are taking. You may have other medications prescribed from other doctors. Donāt forget about those, as well.
When I visit my doctor, the first person I see is his nurse. She asks me questions about my medications and symptoms. Having those written in my notebook is a big relief for me. Everything is right in front of me. When I write down my symptoms, I include details of when the symptoms started and how I was feeling upon their onset. Doctors appreciate hearing, and need to know, about noticeable changes in sleep, energy levels, appetite, and bowel output. I encourage you to be honest about how you are feeling. Itās okay to be detailed, even grading your symptoms on a scale from one to ten. Again, if writing things down is too difficult, ask a family member or friend you trust to help you write down your thoughts.
During my visit, if my doctor prescribes medication, I ask questions. First, I really want to know why he is recommending the medication and why it is needed. What would happen if I chose not to take it? Once we figure out the best medication, I want to know if there are side effects and if there is a generic form for it. Maybe there is a less costly version of that particular medication, and I would save money by using an alternative. I want to know if there are foods, beverages, or over-the-counter medicines I should avoid while taking the new prescription. I make sure to ask how long I will have to take the medication. While I am with him, I make notes to myself so that I can discuss everything with my family. They always have questions for me when I return from the doctor! At the end of my visit, I ask my doctor about a follow-up visit, and I make sure he wonāt mind if I call the office with any questions I have. His attitude speaks volumes to me. Itās important for me to feel comfortable knowing that my doctor has my interest at heart. Make sure you write down your diagnosis and date it. Keep track of the instructions he gives you and follow through with those. If you donāt understand something he has explained, speak up. There have been times when Iāve felt too shy to ask questions. In the end, it only created confusion for me, and then Iād be calling the office and finding myself getting frustrated. Speak up during your appointment. That is the best time to ask questions. If you are interested in my āDoctor Visit Checklist,ā please call me. I will be happy to mail you a copy for your personal use. My number is 847-429-0100.
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