Don’t you hate it when you forget to ask your doctor some of the questions you thought about prior to the appointment?  

Unfortunately, nowadays you spend only a few minutes with the doctor, so the pressure is on to ensure you ask all of the questions you have on your mind.  But let’s face it, depending on what you are seeing the doctor for, you are not in mind state to ask all of the necessary questions.  I am avid believer in preparation. So Dr. Gopal K. Chopra of CNN Health developed these five ways to maximize your doctor’s visit:

1. Do your homework

Google can be your friend.  Yes, there is a ton of information on the internet that may fit your symptoms and some of which that will scare the hell out of you.  But the great part of doing this is that you will have your symptoms written out for your doctor. You can run through all of the possible diseases you think you have and your doctor can give you his expert opinion.  Just remember not to freak out.

2. Know your history

Did you know that they have cool apps for storing your medical history? It will also store the medications you have taken in the past.  I know firsthand how hard it is to remember those things when being asked all of these questions while worrying about your health.  Oh yeah, these apps are pretty secure too. Do your research and find the one that is right for you.  Read the customer comments too.

3. Keep tabs on yourself

Pay attention to your symptoms and their timeline.  This information will be helpful to your doctor. Write it down or enter it into that fancy iPhone or Samsung Galaxy. And keep the notes simple and to the point. (i.e. 101 fever, chills, runny nose {5/11/13})

4. Stay focused

I always tell friends or family to make a list of things they want to discuss with the doctor. You may already be nervous and we already know that will assist in forgetting to ask all of the questions you want answered.  Review those questions up until you enter the examination room.  Ensure that the questions are the most important ones first.

5. Double-check

Not all doctors have the best bedside manner. Some are hateful, but most are just really busy and working with limited resources.  That doesn’t mean you can’t ask for a printed or electronic copy of your doctor’s instructions.  And more importantly, if by the end of your examination you are still not clear, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor to explain it to you again.

Sometimes this could be life or death.  Be prepared. Your life is worth it.

Image via ABC.com

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