Going to the doctor can easily end up feeling like a whirlwind experience, which is kind of funny when you think about it because waiting is the norm! However, it’s easy to clam up as soon as the doctor enters the examination room, and before you know it, you’re walking to your car and you feel like you didn’t get the most out of your appointment.
A little preparation ahead of time can go a long way towards making sure your appointment is informative. Here are a few questions you may want to add to your list so you remember to ask before the doctor leaves the room.
Are There Alternatives To the Treatment Plan You’re Suggesting?
It is common to go to the doctor to get to the bottom of your symptoms. Once a diagnosis is reached, the doctor often prescribes a course of treatment and then you go on your way.
You should know that there is almost always at least one alternative treatment option to the one they are prescribing, so it never hurts to ask!
For example, you may find that regenerative medicine may also be an option instead of relying on medication or surgery. There may be a less harmful, but less effective medication you can start with instead of going straight to a heavy-duty prescription, or you may find that certain stretches or something like acupuncture might be recommended before trying pain medication.
Where Can I Go on the Internet for More Information?
Chances are, you have turned to the internet to answer your medical questions before and after going to the doctor, and chances are, cancer was an option for one or more of your symptoms, even though it’s the least likely option.
Most doctors don’t want you Googling your symptoms or researching treatment options from that one mommy blogger you follow, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want you using the internet at all!
There are plenty of reputable places on the internet to find information. Ask your doctor to share a few of their favorites. That way, next time you have questions, you know where to search for reputable answers before making an appointment.
What Are Some Important Things To Know About My Family’s Health History?
Your family’s health history can be very important. Then again, it might not be. That’s why it’s important to talk to your doctor about their opinion about your family’s health history.
For example, you may have a grandfather who had serious problems with his heart, but he was also a heavy drinker. You may find that your doctor isn’t worried about your heart after an examination because you drink in moderation.
Not only should you talk about physical health, but you should mention mental health as well. No matter what kind of diagnosis, sometimes it’s hereditary, and sometimes it isn’t.
What Are Some Things I Shouldn’t Do While Recovering?
Whether you’re taking medication or you’re recovering from a surgery, you should always ask your doctor what you should and shouldn’t do while you’re getting better.
If you’re taking an antibiotic, you’ll need to know how long to use backup protection in the bedroom. You might not be allowed to swim if you’re wearing a cast. Things get even more complicated when it comes to flying after a surgery. Recovery times vary and include:
- 10 days for an abdominal surgery
- Two weeks for a nasal repair
- Two weeks for a tonsillectomy
- Seven days for an eye surgery
- At least 24 hours after a colonoscopy
What’s One Thing I Can Do To Improve My Health Right Now?
You know there are a lot of things you can do to improve your health, but what is the best way to improve your particular health? Your doctor is the best person to ask!
They might mention quitting smoking or cutting back on pop, but they may also recommend something surprising as well. They might recommend yoga to loosen up your muscles, going for a short walk every day, or switching one of the medications you take. It’s always worth asking to find out what they think!
Doctor appointments aren’t usually very long, which can leave you feeling like you didn’t really get the most out of your time in the clinic. Make every minute count by knowing what questions to ask and writing them down so you can bring them to your appointment. You’ll never return home with an unanswered question again!
