Write down a list of issues and questions to take with you.

Review any existing health problems and note any changes.

• Have you noticed any body changes, including lumps or skin changes?
• Are you having pain, dizziness, fatigue, problems with urine or stool, or menstrual cycle changes?
• Have your eating habits changed?
• Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, distress, or sleeping problems?

If so, note when the change began, how it’s different from before, and any other observation that you think might be helpful.

Be honest with your provider.

If you haven’t been taking your medication as directed, exercising as much, or anything else, say so. You may be at risk for certain diseases and conditions because of how you live, work, and play. Your provider develops a plan based partly on what you say you do. Help ensure that you get the best guidance by providing the most up-to-date and accurate information about you.

Be sure to write your questions down beforehand. Once you’re in the office or exam room, it can be hard to remember everything you want to know. Leave room between questions to write down your provider’s answers.