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Accurate information about your background greatly
enhances a doctor's ability to provide good care. Here are the details
that you should be prepared to provide on your first visit:
The specific complaints that may have brought you to the doctor
Describe concisely any fever, congestion, pains, rashes, or other
symptoms. When discussing a symptom, tell the doctor how long you've had
it, how severe it is, whether you've had anything similar in the past,
and what makes the symptom better or worse.
Your personal medical history, including serious childhood and
adult illnesses, immunizations, chronic conditions, hospital stays, and
any operations or other medical procedures. Bring the name and phone
number of any specialist treating you novo and of any other doctor who
has treated you in recent years.
Your family's medical history, especially ailments that tend to
run in families, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes,
and cancer. Include your brothers, sisters, parents, and grandparents,
as well as any aunts, uncles, and cousins among whom there's a
noticeable pattern of illness.
Any allergies or drug reactions you've had along with a
description of your reactions.
Any medications or supplements you are taking. Include over
the-counter products such as aspirin, allergy medicines, and vitamins,
as well as prescription drugs. Give the name, dosage, daily frequency,
and length of time you have been taking them
Lifestyle. Be ready to discuss family, job, stress, diet,
exercise, sex smoking, drinking, and other factors that may affect your
health.
Source: Reader's Digest: The Good Health Fact Book
Disclaimer: All the information on this page is strictly
provided for informational purposes to better educate yourself only. It is
not meant to substitute for the advice of your own physician or other
medical professional. Do not use the information contained herein for
diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any
medication.
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