Excerpted from "A Year of Health Hints"
365 Practical Ways to Feel Better and Live Longer
When a doctor knows how to really communicate well with a
patient, it can make a big difference in how that patient
responds. But communication is a two-way process. Listening as
well as speaking to one another is something both doctor and
patient must work on together. Being honest and open with each
other is also important.
What Your Doctor Should Know About You
Aside from a general health history, it is important that your
doctor ask certain questions about the following:
Dietary habits
(Are you a frequent junk-food eater? Are you especially fond of
cheesecake,
sour cream, or other
fatty foods?)
Your occupation
(Do you work in a high-stress job? Are you exposed to nickel,
nuclear
power radiation, or
other toxic substances?)
Sleep habits (Do
you frequently awaken before dawn or have problems getting to
sleep?)
Family problems
(Are you currently going through a divorce?)
Lifestyle (Do you
get any exercise?)
Stress (Do you
work in a noisy environment?)
Health attitude
(Are you serious about quitting smoking?)
History of family
illness (Does heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes,
kidney problems,
or cancer run in your
family?)
Major life events
(Have you recently retired from work?)
Living
arrangements (Do you live alone?)
Quizzing Your Doctor
Because a doctor's time is valuable, patients often feel
rushed or uneasy taking it up. And when you're sick, there is a
tendency to feel vulnerable and passive. But by heeding these
suggestions, you can still make the most of your doctor-patient
communications.
Repeat back in
your own words what the doctor has told you.
Use simple phrases
like "Do I hear you say that... ?" or "My
understanding of the problem is. . ."
Plan ahead of time
what you will say to your doctor about your problem. Your
observations
about a health problem
can be invaluable in making a diagnosis.
Take notes on what
is wrong and what you need to do.
If you are
confused by medical terms, ask for simple definitions. There is
no need to be
embarrassed by this.
When a medication
is prescribed, ask about its possible side effects, its
effectiveness, and how
long it must be taken.
If your doctor
discusses surgery, ask about alternatives, risks, and a second
opinion.
Be frank with the
doctor if any part of the office visit is annoying, such as
lengthy waiting time
or discourteous staff.
Be tactful, but honest.
Don't be afraid to
voice your fears or apprehensions about what you've heard. The
doctor may
be able to clarify any
misconceptions.
Discuss any
self-care practices you've used that have relieved symptoms.
Find out the best
time for the doctor to receive your phone calls should any
questions arise.