Doctor Visit
I’m going to meet my new doctor tomorrow. It’s a consult. He’s an MS specialist. I have to change doctors due to insurance. Not looking forward to it. I really liked my doctor in the city, even though I only saw her twice. But I hear this new doctor is good. My question is, any suggestions on what to ask him? This is my first dr visit since my diagnosis and starting the medication in the beginning of May.
Hi! This is what I wish I asked 16 years ago when I was diagnosed-
What kind of MS do I have? What are my options? What are the side effects of these drugs? What blood work should I get and how regularly?(Some require liver and thyroid tests) Can I get a JCV blood test? How will these drugs help? How are they administered and how often? Is there training for self-injection? Do you have a social worker or nutritionist to help me with diet and supplements to help manage my MS symptoms (CRUCIAL) Most docs aren't trained in this and it's impt your doc doesn't blow it off. Will PT or OT help me maintain my current strength, mobility etc? What kind of symptoms are possible and how do I manage them? These are off the top of my head. I'm sure there are more things to ask. Bring a list of questions in order of importance. Make him and hand him a copy and say, this is what I need to know. Good Luck!!
Thank you for your suggestions. I appreciate it.
It might help to know how many MS patients he has. Which treatment he likes and why? [My doctor is a fan of Gylena if it can be tolerated.] Talk about your specific issues. Ask about any side effects you should be on the alert for. Be sure to bring up your specific issues, insomnia? incontinenece? urgency? numbness? etc. I had a severe fatigue problem and inability to sleep issue a few years ago. My doc sent me to the sleep clinic and I got hooked up with a CPAP. Made a huge difference. Remember, a good doctor is your partner on this journey. :-) Good luck.
I realize there is no cure for MS. Being new to all of this, I was just wondering what are good questions to ask my doctor. Being a “newbie” in all. I will ask him about the medication. Thanks.
I would acknowledge you understand there's no cure for MS but with that said what are you doing or not doing that he would suggest you stop or start. I wish I had gotten more serious about my care earlier so I would say ask all questions you have without embarrassment or with you anticipating an immediate answer. Remember, you are the one with MS and should not hold back any questions you have. Ask why you are taking the DMD you are and why you aren't taking a more or less aggressive med. I would figure a way to do this real nice like but that's just me. Be sure to share all what you believe are side effects from the DMD you have taken since May. Like my grandmother would say God doesn't have to answer all your prayers but that doesn't mean you don't ask!!
What To Do When Your Dr. Says Nothing Out There For You At Dr Visit
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