Before
you go to your local surgery or health centre it is a good
idea to think about what you want to say or ask. You may
wish to write it down on a piece of paper and take it along.
If you have more than one health problem or question, mention
this when you make your appointment.
These
are the points you should think about before your visit:
What
is the most important reason for the visit?
How
long have you had the illness or complaint, or when did
it begin to get worse?
What
medicines are you taking? Write down the names or take the
medicines along with you. This also means any remedies which
you might have bought yourself from a pharmacy or other
shop, like painkillers, laxatives, herbal remedies, etc.
If
you think that your problem could be linked with using certain
medicines, then tell the doctor. Your doctor will be able
to tell you if this is the case.
If
you have seen another practitioner, for example, an osteopath,
physiotherapist or a counsellor, say so. Explain what you
have been treated for.
If
you think that your illness could be linked with earlier
illnesses, tell the doctor. If you think that you know a
cause, say so too.
Is
there anything in your private life which could be having
an effect on your illness? There are often causes of illness
other than diseases.
WHEN
THE SURGERY IS CLOSED
Before
calling the doctor
Try the
self-care treatments in the What should I do?
booklet or web site for your ailment or injury.
Think
about how you feel.
Can you wait until the surgery re-opens in the morning?
Or do you need advice or reassurance sooner?
Could a dentist, pharmacist, district nurse, or midwife
help you with your problem?
Getting
advice
If you do need advice or to see a doctor, phone your local
surgery. Your doctor's emergency switchboard number will
be available there.
