Hey Doc, it Hurts When I do This…..

We've all heard the joke; Hey Doc, it hurts when I do this. And the doctor says; Then don't do that! Well it might be funny, but it is also true. We really need to ask out doctors questions. We also need to listen to the answers.

They might seem simple, but we're going to go over how to prepare for a trip to the doctor. As well as what to ask, or tell, him once we're there. Following these easy steps can make the difference between life and death, literally.

The day before your appointment:

Sit down and think about how you have been feeling lately. Write down anything you think is important. Also, write down the little things. Such as;

¨ Occasional numbness in your hands and/or feet. It might only happen once or twice a month. It might be nothing. Or, it might be a warning sign of an oncoming physical affliction. It is always better to be safe than sorry. ¨ The feeling of fatigue, more than usual. This also could be a sign that some thing is wrong. ¨ Your finger and toe nails have become very brittle. This could be the sign of a vitamin deficiency. ¨ You have noticed, lately, that you seem to be loosing your hair. This could mean many things. From normal hair loss( the common person looses 50 to 100 hairs a day), to a vitamin deficiency, to pattern baldness. In any of these cases, if you are concerned, Tell the Doctor. ¨ Numbness and/or pain in your wrist, could mean carpal tunnel syndrome. There are things the doctor can suggest to alleviate your symptoms.

Anything else that sticks in your mind, let the doctor know.

The day of the appointment:

I would hope this goes without saying, but I have to say it. Make sure you are thoroughly clean, for your appointment. If for no other reason, for the doctor's sake.

¨ Be on time for the appointment. If you arrive late you may have to wait hours. Or, even have to reschedule your appointment. ¨ Check all of your prescriptions. If you have any. If you need new ones, bring the bottles with you. ¨ If you need to bring a urine specimen, put it in a clean glass jar. Don't use a yogurt container. This could result in false test results. ¨ Wear clothing that is easy to change out of. If you will need to put on a gown, this will be a life savor.

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