What Can I Say?
Giving Information
Talking about your health means sharing information about how you feel physically, emotionally, and mentally. Tell the doctor about your illnesses, operations, medical conditions, and other doctors you see. Knowing how to describe your symptoms and bringing up other concerns will help you and your doctor be partners in your health care. Worksheet 3: Changes to Discuss, on pages 43 – 44, and Worksheet 4: Concerns, on page 45 of this booklet can help.
Share any Symptoms
A symptom may reflect a disease or disorder in the body or in the mind. Examples of body symptoms include pain, itching, shortness of breath, or having a hard time sleeping. Symptoms of the mind may include feeling sad, anxious, or depressed. Other symptoms of the mind can be feeling confused, disoriented, or unable to concentrate. Take the time to make some notes about your symptoms before you call or visit the doctor. Worrying about your symptoms is not a sign of weakness. Being honest about what you are experiencing doesn’ t mean that you are complaining. The doctor needs to know how you feel.
Be clear and brief when describing your symptoms but tell the doctor the details about them. Your description helps the doctor identify the problem. A physical exam and medical tests provide valuable information, but your experience of your symptoms points the doctor in the right direction.
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Questions to ask yourself about your symptoms:
* What exactly are my symptoms?
* Are the symptoms constant? If not, when do I experience them?
* Does anything I do make the symptoms better? Or worse?
* Do the symptoms affect my daily activities? Which ones? How?
Give Information About Your Medications
It is possible for medicines to interact, causing unpleasant and sometimes dangerous side effects. Your doctor needs to know about ALL medicines you take, including over-the-counter( nonprescription) drugs and herbal remedies or supplements. Make a list or bring all your medicines with you. Don’ t forget about eye drops, vitamins, and laxatives. Tell the doctor how often you take each. Describe any drug allergies or reactions you have had. Say which medications work best for you. Be sure your doctor has the phone number of the pharmacy you use. Worksheet 5: Medications, on page 47 of this booklet can help.
Talking With Your Doctor 9