Most everyone I know, including me hates to go to the doctor. It's just the idea of changing our daily routine to go sit in an office with other anxious people waiting to see a doctor for their ailments.

Most of the time, it's merely to get medication to clear up a nasty sinus infection or perhaps a flu shot. Other visits involve more in depth tests and discussion regarding medication and rest.

No matter how prepared we feel that we are, somehow when the doctor breezes in and begins an exam, our thoughts, questions and other ideas fall right out of our heads! Then, on the way home, you recall, "Oh yeah! I wanted to ask the Doctor about THIS, but I forgot!". How many times has this happened to you? It's happened to me too many times. What about when you are asked what medicine you are taking? Does it suddenly slip your mind?

In any event, how can YOU get the most out of your doctor visits? Organization is key in getting the information you need from your doctor. Here are some great tips to get started:

MAKE A LIST

Write down all medications you take including over the counter drugs. Be sure to note the milligrams and times of day you must take your meds.

Make a list of allergies to medication or drugs that you have

Make a detailed list of your symptoms and questions. For example:

Symptom: In the past two weeks, I've experienced dizziness. It happens mostly in the mornings about an hour after taking my morning medication.

You need to make sure you note unusual, troublesome symptoms by jotting down the date and time of when it occurs, if it happens fequently. This helps the doctor determine if there is a pattern and a possible cause for it.

Questions to ask the doctor: My blood pressure seems to be below normal. Do you think it is safe to take me off the medication?

Is it safe for me to exercise?

Why are you prescribing this medicine for me?

Do you think surgery is absolutely necessary? Can you recommend another doctor for a second opinion?

Are there any special instructions for this medication? Should I avoid certain foods or fluids?

Elderly Family members

Do you have aging parents or grandparents? If so, you may want to volunteer to accompany them to their next doctor visit. Many times, the elderly may forget key bits of information or may not quite understand why they are given medication. Rather than asking, they take the medicine as instructed without knowing why!

Listening to the doctor with your family member ensures that more than one person understands the information that the doctor is giving you. Asking questions is integral to understanding about your health issues.

Final note: Be sure to bring your list of questions, medications, and symptoms to your appointment and do not be afraid to ask questions and make notes. If your doctor appears to be short on time or is aggravated by your questions, then it is time to shop for another physician. Your healthcare is vitally important and all of your questions should be addressed and explained to your satisfaction.

Being organized also helps your doctor in expediting your exam. So take the time to jot notes in between visits and note any changes in your health. Your doctor will thank you for it!