Checklist for Visiting Your Primary Care Doctor

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When you leave a doctor's appointment, do you feel as though you still have unanswered questions, misunderstood answers, and worry you're not getting a full exam to which you are entitled?  It's up to you to communicate with your doctor your need to have this important information, and your prepared questions should be welcomed.

These questions and talking points can help you have your best visit yet.  Bring a notepad to jot down the information, then, before you leave, repeat it back to the doctor to be sure you've understood.  Better yet, bring someone with you to take the notes for you.

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Be prepared for your next primary care physician checkup with this checklist:

Blood Pressure:  Ask what it is and what it should be.
 
Family History:  Discuss when you should be tested for diseases that have affected family members.
 
Blood tests:  Starting between ages 35 and 40, you should have your cholesterol and blood-sugar levels checked to screen for heart disease and diabetes. Ask ahead if you need to make preparations, such as fasting before the test.
 
Thyroid Function: You should be tested if you have unexplained weight loss, irritability, irregular heart rate, insomnia or muscle weakness (all symptoms of an overactive thyroid), or fatigue, depression, weight gain, dry skin or trouble concentrating (all signs of an underactive thyroid).  Women also should have their thyroid tested every five years after menopause.
 
Bone Mineral Density (BMD): You should have a BMD test at age 65 (sooner if you are postmenopausal and have risk factors: for instance, you're thin or small boned, or you smoke or have a family history).
 
Prescriptions: Tell your doctor about any other drugs, herbs or supplements you're taking to keep your history up to date.
 
Unusual Symptoms: Describe anything abnormal—a rash, headaches, sadness, sudden weight gain or loss, fatigue.

(c) Copyright 2014 Robyn King. All Rights Reserved.

Source: http://www.oprah.com/health/Checklists-for-Visiting-the-Doctor#ixzz2vfRuRdZY
(c) Copyright 2014 Robyn M. King. All Rights Reserved.