What to ask at your next doctor's appointment
When you're meeting with your doctor, it can be intimidating to bring up your questions and concerns when the length of appointments keeping shrinking, and you know that there are many patients in the lobby waiting for their turn. The current health system pressures doctors to "process" as many patients as they can in a day.
Remember, however, that it's your right as a patient to know what treatment options are available, the pros and cons. Keep a copy of all the medications you're taking with you at all times for convenient reference; keep another copy in your car just in case. Medical records can be notoriously faulty, and if you're seeing multiple medical professionals they might not have the most up-to-date information about what you're taking. Asking your doctor what to anticipate will save you trouble down the road and help avoid potential hospitalization.
Helpful questions to ask your doctor:
What is the name of the drug you're prescribing, and what its purpose?
How and when do I take it? When do I stop using it?
How long does it take before the drug starts working?
What are the side effects, and what should I do if I notice these symptoms?
What foods, drinks, activities or other drugs should I avoid while taking this drug?
Is there a certain time of day when I should take the drug?
Are there older or generic versions of this drug?
Could you please write down these instructions for me?
When should I meet with you next to check in to see if the medication is working?
What else to tell your doctor about you alternative treatments
In the interest of full disclosure, you should also inform your doctor of any alternative remedies or over the counter treatments you're taking. These complementary remedies include supplements and herbal concotions, which many take without thinking to inform or consult their doctor. 19% of older adults use herbal supplements, and 65% use other dietary supplements. You never know what potentially harmful interactions could take place with your prescription medications, and drug companies rarely advertise the adverse side effects of these supplemental treatments in older users.
Aspirin, for example, can lead to iron deficiency anemia, increase the effect of blood thinners and decrease sodium and chloride excretion. This is a considerable concern for those with congestive heart failure. Chronic use of laxatives can lead to electrolyte and water imbalances. Too much vitamin A can lead to excessive fatigue, while too much vitamin C could raise uric acid levels, trigger gout in the predisposed and cause false readings on diabetes urine tests.
The regulations on these alternative treatments are far less strict than they are for prescription drugs, so it's best to be cautious about using these as you would about any other drug. It can't hurt to consult a medical professional. Being proactive in communicating with your doctor is one of the best steps you can take to improve and preserve your health.
Part II: So they've prescribed my medications; now what?
Sources:
Ness, et al. se of Complementary Medicine in Older Adults: Results from the Health and Retirement Study. The Gerontologist. 45(4), 516-524.
This page was largely adapted from the Medicine Education Program developed by Behavioral Health Services, Inc., sponsored by the Los Angeles County ADPA.
