Working with your doctor
 
A good relationship with your doctor or specialist can make a big difference to your health. If you are able to communicate honestly and openly, he or she will be better able to prescribe a programme of treatment and care that is best for you. 
 
An important part of this is knowing what you need to tell your doctor or specialist, and also being clear about the questions you should ask. 
 
Don't forget to mention... 
There are a number of key things you should try to let your doctor or specialist know, including: 
 

• What your symptoms are and how severe they are. Try to use everyday language and avoid medical terms you are unsure of. 
   
  
• Don't forget to mention symptoms that you might consider to be commonplace, like headaches or sleeping difficulties. Such symptoms could be indicative of an underlying health problem. 
   
  
• When your symptoms happened. Consider keeping a symptom 'diary' for a few days before going to see the doctor. 
   
  
• If you have other health concerns, even if you don't think they're related, such as bone fractures or problems with your vision. 
   
  
• The truth. Don't try to hide facts if you have a condition that you find very embarrassing or if you are a heavy smoker or drinker. Concealing this information could affect and even hinder your treatment and care. 
   
  
• How the condition is making you feel emotionally.

 
Don't be afraid to ask 
If you have any questions about your doctor or specialist's recommendations, don't worry about asking them. Don't be embarrassed about taking notes if you think it will help you remember everything. 
 

• Be sure to get all the information you need. Make sure you understand all you want to know about your condition, and know why certain treatment options have been recommended. Ask your doctor if there are any lifestyle changes you could make which could help, such as changing your eating habits or giving up smoking.  
   
  
• Ask where you can go to get more information about your condition. There may be websites your doctor considers useful or patient groups you can join. 
   
  
• Ensure you understand what happens next and in the future. For example, you need to know if you should return for regular checkups – or if another healthcare professional will be responsible for monitoring your condition. 
   
  
• If you have any concerns or are not happy about your doctor's decision, don't be worried about asking what other options are available to you. 
   
  
• If you are not sure about your diagnosis and/or the treatment prescribed and think a second opinion might help, don't be worried about asking for one. Your doctor may be able to refer you to a specialist or another GP in the practice. A second opinion can help ensure that your treatment and care are successful.

 
It's important not to think that you are wasting your doctor's time if you have lots of questions and concerns. Your health is important, so if you do feel that you need more time with them you could always ask if a double appointment is available. This may not be possible when you see a specialist.