new doctor advice plz

[Buzz_lightyear]

Hello all,
I have my first appointment with a brand new doctor next week. I was hoping to get my usual one as she is very understanding and helpful, but im afraid that, as has happened before, i'll try and cram all the information in for the new doctor and i end up walking out at the end with no answers because ive confused the doctor and myself and missed telling vital information. I think some kind person told me after my last post, to write things down before i go, which sounds like a great idea, but i just dont know where to start when there is so much i need to say and ask. Can anyone, especially the doctors and nurses out there, give me advice on the best approach?
I am not yet diagnosed and was hoping someone could point me in the right direction regarding referals? ie dermatologists etc......do i ask outright to get a referal? Do i suggest that every ailment ive been to see the doctor about in the last few years seems to be tied up to one condition? :umm:
your help is much appreciated,
Rob

[Buzz_lightyear]

PS...am i the only guy in this forum?????

[Maia]

Nope, there are definitely other guys here. You can "meet" some of them in the Men's Forum ;)

I've found that organizing my symptoms into groups is often helpful: I have a section for what is *currently* a problem, and I list in order by what is most painful or bothering me the most; then a section for what is intermittently a problem - recurring things like pleuritis; and then I have a section for past problems that haven't been a problem in a while.

Sometimes they find it helpful to have copies of past labs - you can bring your own copies or ask the office to send them before your appointment too.

Hope you find a keeper!

[Buzz_lightyear]

Thanks. I was thinking about keeping a diary of 'episodes'. This may work in the same way as your advice. Had a bad day today, health wise, so i may start right now.
thanks for your time Maia.
rob

[helloos]

I would make a list of symptoms. The most severe ones at the top. Hand it to them. Say that you made this list of everything because you don't know if all connected but figure this doc can figure it out and you are in desperate need of help.

I would then make a list of my questions. Keep them to the most important of your questions only.

Make a list of any medications you are taking.

Any tests that you have had try to have in your hand.

All family history.

Hope that helps !

[Buzz_lightyear]

Thanks Paula, i'll do that