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When you visit your physician, there are several pieces of information that will help make your appointment more effective. There are also questions you'll want to ask.

Information to bring with you

You should be prepared to report your history, including:

• What symptoms you are having (such as chest pain or shortness of breath)
• Which activities provoke your symptoms
• How long symptoms have been occurring and whether they are worsening or becoming more frequent
• The approximate number of times you have had symptoms over the last several months?
• The amount of time between symptoms
• What medications you are taking
• What specialists you have seen for your symptoms

A diary or notebook would be useful to record this information and to also take note of your physician's advice.

Make the most of the time spent with the physician and be prepared. Write down a list of questions to ask your doctor and write down the answers. Good questions for your physician include:

• What is my diagnosis?
• What causes it?
• Can it be treated?
• What tests should be done? Why?
• What are my treatment options?
• What are the risks, benefits, or side effects of these different options?
• What can I do to prevent further damage to my heart?
• Should I be referred to a heart specialist (cardiologist) to discuss my condition?

Remember, although you may find important information in your search for answers about your condition, there is no substitute for professional medical advice for treatment of specific medical conditions.

Last update: 31.07.2005