1% Thursday: Ask More Questions

I’ve been to doctors in and from various countries.  Everyone has their own way of doing things.  Some doctors explain everything in minute detail.  Others don’t tell you anything.  I admit, I prefer the first.

But who is supposed to be in charge of my health again?  Oh yeah, that’s me!  And no matter how sick I feel, or shy I feel – I need to ASK QUESTIONS.

So that’s this week’s tip.  Next time you go to your doctor, ask questions.  If this is new to you, try just asking one question.

Yes, even if you don’t think you need to know – think of something to ask.  Anything.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• What is this test for?
• Could you explain again why you think my ****** levels are low?
• How long does this medication take to work?
• Do you think it could be my kidneys?
• My father has heart problems – could it be the same with me?
• Is there anything else I can do besides take this medication that will help me?
• How long has this medication been on the market?
• Why do I feel so tired in the mornings?
• Are you having a busy day?
• Would it be worthwhile for me to see a foot specialist?
• So let me see if I’ve got this right – are you saying that *******?

Try it – on a good day, you’ll learn something useful, make your doctor feel useful, and feel a little bit braver and more in control.  That’s got to be a 1% improvement.

For more, don’t miss the HeadWay issue How to talk to your doctor.

What is 1% Thursday?

Every Thursday at Headache and Migraine News (weather permitting) we’ll talk about one measurable, practical thing we can do to make our lives just 1% better.  Usually it will be something very easy, sometimes it will be a challenge.  Let us know if you try it, or share an idea of your own – and maybe a year from now we’ll see that things have really changed for the better!