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Have you ever felt like you didn't know what to say to your doctor about your stomach ache? Most people often feel a little embarrassed when they talk to their doctor. Keep in mind that the doctor may look scary but will help you find ways to treat your condition if you have acid reflux (GERD).
When should I see a doctor?
You should call your doctor if any of the following occurs:
- Ulcers occur 2 or more times a week
- Your ulcer is getting worse
- Ulcers occur at night and wake you from sleep
- You've had an ulcer for several years
- You have difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Discomfort or pain that interferes with your daily activities.
How do I talk to my doctor?
GERD can bring about some unpleasant and embarrassing symptoms, such as bad breath and a hoarse, cracked voice that makes speaking louder. But don't worry, even the smallest symptom is important for the doctor to treat your condition, even if you are embarrassed about it.
Sometimes you may experience symptoms that are not caused by GERD. Talk to your doctor about these symptoms so they can diagnose other conditions. Also don't forget to mention:
- Your medical history. You can keep a “health journal” for yourself on paper or in a notebook, and take it with you to doctor appointments. Personal information, including whether you are under stress or if your life changes.
- Any medicines you are currently taking. Take it with you or write a list of all medicines. Include information about when and how often you drink it. You must also write down the strength of the drug (for example, you are taking 150 mg or 200 mg).
- Any side effects you may experience from the medicine, especially if it makes you feel sick or if you think you may be allergic to it.
- Any vitamins or supplements you use.
- Any X-rays, test results or medical records are taken during a doctor's appointment.
When you come for follow-up, you will need to update your symptoms, any drug reactions you are experiencing. If you don't follow a doctor's prescription, tell your doctor. If you have trouble remembering or your schedule is correct, your doctor may change your medication.
If you feel like your doctor is "not around" or that you are not listening to you, you can always get their attention by saying hello.
What do I need to ask the doctor?
Before entering, you can write down a list of questions:
- What might be causing my symptoms? Is it possible for other conditions to cause symptoms?
- What types of tests do I need? What are the side effects of this test and how do I prepare?
- Do I need an endoscopy?
- Is my GERD temporary or chronic?
- What can I expect about GERD over time? What complications of GERD might develop? What's the best course of action?
- What are the alternatives to the primary approach you are suggesting?
- I have other health conditions. What is the best way to treat it while monitoring GERD?
- What changes to my lifestyle, for example, dietary habits, might be helpful in addition to the medications you recommend? Is there a recipe that I need to follow?
- Should I meet a specialist? How much does it cost and can my insurance cover it?
- Are there any medicines I have used or could they interact with the drugs you have prescribed? Is there a generic alternative to my prescription medication?
- Are there any brochures or other printed material I can take with me? What sites do you recommend?
- Should I schedule follow-up visits? What are the important symptoms or signs that I should watch for and report on?
All good things come well prepared. During your doctor's visit you have to think about what you want to talk about. During treatment, if any complications occur, you do not need to wait until the next appointment to see a doctor, instead, call them for advice.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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