Despite our best efforts to keep our bodies in the best condition possible, every now and then we experience problems with our health, and find ourselves in the doctor’s office. Though any good medical professional will do what’s best for you, some patients can wind up feeling a little in-the-dark about their health. If you want to be more informed and involved in your healthcare, here are a few tips to remember.

Before the Appointment

Getting more informed on your healthcare starts long before you even enter the clinic waiting room. The day before your appointment, gather all the medicines you’re currently taking, and plan to bring these along. This includes prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, even day-to-day painkillers like aspirin, vitamins, and nutritional supplements. If you have any questions you want to ask about your current health or courses of medication you’re on, write them down. Forgetting to ask the right questions has the potential to have a very detrimental effect on your health. Finally, if you’re unclear on any of your past medical treatments, surgeries, and conditions, brush up on them, and take any notes if you think you might forget them between now and the appointment.

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During the Appointment

The real work starts when you’re in the office with your doctor. Be sure to fully explain any symptoms you’re experiencing, your health history to the best of your knowledge, and issues with medication that you’ve taken in the past. If your doctor gives you any instructions on how to take medication or avoid a certain ingredient in your food, and you’re worried about following them correctly, then bring this up with them. This goes for pretty much any question about your health that’s been weighing on your mind. If you’re worried about what’s in your food, AlgaeCal side effects, the dosage of your medication or anything else, bring it up. Sometimes, things that can seem normal and benign could be the sign of a serious problem. If you’re told you need a test done, ask your doctor how the process will be performed, how it will feel, what you need to do to prepare for it, and what the results will mean for your future care. If you’re told you need a prescription, be sure to tell your doctor if you’re pregnant, nursing, or have had any reactions to medicine in the past.

After the Appointment

There are still things you should be doing after every medical appointment you go to. Follow any instructions you were given, and if you have trouble understanding them, call your doctor at the next opportunity. If you’re getting to the end of a prescription, but you’re still worried about some symptoms, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about it. If your symptoms get worse, despite you following instructions, let your doctor know as soon as possible. It’s also a good idea to set reminders for yourself to have tests done, or see a specialist if needs be. Following test results, make sure you’re absolutely clear on what to do next.