The holiday season is just beginning, and we all know what that means—cold and flu season. While temperatures drop, sick days skyrocket, and feeling mediocre becomes the standard. But before you sniffle and sneeze your way through the winter season, schedule a doctor’s visit and get the most out of it.
Properly preparing for the upcoming flu season is exactly what your doctor ordered so you don’t suffer through the next three months. Here is everything you need to know to make your doctor’s visit a success.
6 TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR NEXT DOCTOR’S VISIT
1.DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT OUT OF YOUR DOCTOR’S VISIT
Before you drive over to your appointment, make sure you understand what you want to get out of your doctor’s visit. Ask yourself, “What is the point of the visit?” While you probably have an idea of what you need, narrowing it down to the specifics will help you remain focused throughout the appointment. Arrive 15-20 minutes early and give yourself plenty of time to relax, have your vitals checked, and mull over the purpose of your visit.
2. GATHER MEDICAL INFORMATION
Be sure you have all your medical information on hand. While this is typically more important for those visiting a doctor for the first time, it is also helpful for practitioners to get reminders during your visit. The medical information you should share includes personal medication history, surgeries, mental health issues, hospitalizations, and family health history.
Make sure that you also share any changes or new conditions for you or your family members, as well. Your medical information is a valuable tool and can help your doctor to better fully understand your bill of health.
3. LIST YOUR SYMPTOMS
Make a list of all the symptoms that you are currently having. For example, do you have any symptoms that you want to ask your doctor about? Let your doctor what your current health conditions are and what is of most concern. Mention any changes you have noticed that might not seem important, including appetite, weight, sleep patterns, and energy levels. Listing everything beforehand will help you remember everything and not leave out a symptom that could help narrow your diagnosis.
4.DO YOUR RESEARCH
Arming yourself with knowledge is also a great way to help you have a meaningful conversation with your doctor. Sometimes patients are nervous about suggesting what illness or condition they think they might have. On the contrary. Helping your doctor understand your thoughts on your illness could help significantly. Even if you don’t have that specific condition, your doctor will help you fully understand how that condition differs from yours.
Failing to inform the doctor on all your thoughts could determine whether you leave the office feeling satisfied with the visit or not. Download and fill out Discussing Changes in Your Health: Worksheet from the National Institute on Aging for help making your own list of research and symptoms.
5. RELAX
It is natural to be nervous or anxious when visiting your doctor. Before and during your appointment, take the time to focus on your breath and relax. Your doctor wants to help you feel your best. Remind yourself of this as you go to and from your doctor’s visit. This is also a constructive tip for those with high blood pressure as it can give you abnormal results during your vital check. Instead of stressing out, try taking a few deep breaths before heading into the doctor.
You can also do things to keep your mind off of the appointment while you wait. A few things to try before your next doctor’s visit include watching videos on your smartphone, reading, or checking up on social media. If all else fails, pay attention to your breathing and slow things down.
6. BE HONEST WITH YOUR DOCTOR
No matter what you do during your appointment, stay honest. Many people struggle when discussing medical conditions. But you should not feel embarrassed to talk about anything with your medical professional. If you are suffering from any condition, you must let your doctor know. Actually, leaving out details can be bad for your health. Without arming them with the proper information, they won’t be able to give you the correct treatment.
Along with being honest about how you are feeling, make sure you tell your doctor your thoughts on your discussions. If you are uncomfortable with test results or diagnosis, let them know. They can help you better understand your health, so you feel comfortable with the results.
A productive doctor visit is only moments away when you keep these tips in mind. For additional help scheduling your next doctor’s appointment, contact Tanner Clinic. We would love to help you get the most out of your doctor’s visit.
