What Should I Discuss with my Doctor?

Since being diagnosed with diabetes, your physician has probably given you a wealth of information on the disease, the treatment, and what you can do at home. However, you still may have questions in the back of your mind. Likewise, your doctor may have only briefly covered something you would like to know more about. It is also easy to forget those questions you may have thought of at home by the time you reach the doctor’s office. The following are tips to help you get the most from your doctor regarding diabetes or any other condition:

• Keep a pad of paper on the counter and write your questions down. It is very easy to forget your questions from day to day. Keeping a pad of paper in a neutral place and jotting your questions down as they come to you will keep you from leaving the doctor’s office with unasked and unanswered questions. Also, encourage family members to write down their questions as well. Helping those who care about you understand your disease will only benefit you in the long run.
• Bring your test results and any medications with you to appointments. If you are testing your blood glucose levels at home, keep a record of the results and bring them to your appointments. This will help your doctor follow your blood sugar patterns and adjust your medicines accordingly. It will also show that you are ready to take an active part in managing your disease. Likewise, be sure to bring any medications you may be currently taking, even the ones your diabetes doctor has prescribed. It is important that your doctor know what medicines you are taking so that he can best evaluate your condition.
• Do not be afraid to ask. As the old adage goes, there is no stupid question. Don’t be afraid to share your questions and concerns with your physician. If you don’t ask, your doctor may assume you already know, and you may be missing out on valuable information. Likewise, your doctor will be able to answer questions regarding traveling, work–related issues, finding or joining a support group, eating out, and stopping smoking.
• Do not disregard changes. Most importantly, report any changes or symptoms you may be having. Because of the other conditions that can result in patients with diabetes, be careful not to dismiss anything as unrelated.

In addition, there are many more disease–specific questions of which you should be aware. Consider the following when talking to your doctor about diabetes:

• Ask about your at–home blood glucose monitoring. Your physician should be able to provide you with the specifics of how often and at what times you should be checking your sugar level. Also, you should know your target levels.
• Ask about changes, symptoms, and concerns. You should know what types of changes or symptoms are cause for concern. Find out the severity of various symptoms and how or when to contact your doctor should certain concerns arise.
• Ask about physical activity. Physical activity is an important element of maintaining a healthy lifestyle when you have diabetes. However, you should check with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine to find out exact what type of activity is best for your condition and what type you should avoid.
• Ask about your diet. Those who suffer from diabetes have to closely monitor their diets to avoid spikes or drops in blood sugar levels. Talk to your doctor concerning how and when meal plans should be adjusted and what role exercise plays in the food you eat.
• Ask about low blood sugar. Find out what precautions you should take to avoid low blood sugar, a condition that can occur for a number of reasons, including missed meals, too much insulin, and reaction to some medicines.
• Ask about prescription drug side–effects and combining drugs. If your doctor prescribes prescription diabetes medication, be sure to ask about any side–effects the drugs may have. Also, if you are taking other prescription or over–the–counter medicine, make sure your doctor knows to avoid harmful drug combinations. And always ask before beginning a new medication, including those purchased over–the–counter.
• Ask about aspirin. Find out if a daily low–dose aspirin should be added to your daily medications to help prevent heart disease and stroke.
• Ask about a feet evaluation. Because foot problems are common in those with diabetes, have your doctor perform a risk evaluation of your feet. Be prepared by removing your shoes and socks before your physician meets with you.
• Ask about insurance. Be sure that your chosen physician is listed in the Trust’s provider network, indicating that he or she takes the Teachers Health Trust Insurance Plan.