This is the final week of American Heart Month, and making an appointment to see a cardiologist, is a positive first step in staying on top of your heart health. Managing editor Tami Roleff has some tips on how to stay prepared for this very important doctor’s visit…
First off, be prepared. When you arrive, have a list of any medications or supplements you take with exact dosages, any symptoms of heart disease you may have or have had, your health history, and the health history of your family.
Bring a pen and paper. You may feel like you are getting information overload, so you’ll want to take notes. Go in with a prepared list of questions. Plus, you may think of questions during the visit. Ask about tests that are ordered, or medications prescribed, and what the next steps are.
After your vitals have been checked, your doctor will most likely ask you a series of questions. Be honest with your doctor, especially when it comes to the details of your eating and exercise habits and your family medical history. Your cardiologist needs all the pieces of the puzzle to effectively help you fight heart disease.
Make the most of your appointment and don’t be afraid to ask your own questions. Do some research, go in with a prepared list of questions and ask for clarification or a follow-up if needed. Good doctors will spend the time with their patients and thoroughly answer any questions or concerns.
What are my risk factors for heart disease?
What tests will you be ordering, why are you ordering them and what does each show?
When can I expect to find out the results of the tests and how will I be notified?
What are the next steps after you receive the test results?
Why are you prescribing this medication, how will it help and what are the side effects?
What should my ideal blood pressure be? How do I check my blood pressure on my own and how often should I check it?
What do my cholesterol numbers mean? What should my goal number be for my LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or “bad” cholesterol?
Should I take aspirin daily?
What changes in my lifestyle do you recommend?
How important is family history in diagnosing heart disease?
What should I be doing on my own to fight heart disease?
Remember, one of the most important aspects of the doctor-patient relationship is communication. Make sure you are comfortable with your cardiologist, and if you are not, don’t be afraid to find another doctor. You are creating a partnership in your fight against heart disease and your cardiologist may the most important physician in your life.
