12 May Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Your Neurological Disease

When you’re diagnosed with a neurological disease, you often have many questions that need to be answered. When you visit your doctor, it can sometimes be overwhelming to receive information you have never heard before and may not understand.  Here are five important questions to keep top-of-mind when visiting your doctor after receiving a neurological diagnosis. It is a good idea to prepare your questions ahead of time and bring them with you on your next visit.

Should I get a second opinion?

It is recommended to get a second opinion.  If you are going to be making important decisions about your health, knowing that your diagnosis has been confirmed by two doctors will reassure you in making decisions moving forward.

When you get a second opinion, it is important to be as prepared with questions as you were when getting your initial diagnosis. Ask the same questions and address any issues that may have left you confused with your first doctor.

What tests or scans are required for my condition?

When you are first diagnosed, it often requires new tests or scans to get a better understanding of your condition and its progression.  It is important to ask your doctor what type of test you will require, what the test are for and how soon you will receive the results.  It is also important to find out the correct person to speak to about the results so you can rest assured you are getting the most accurate information about what lies ahead.

What type of treatments will I need?

Once you understand more about your condition, ask about the type of treatment required and how often you will need it.  Some people may find treatments exhausting, so ask if a close friend or family member should attend to support you or drive you home.  Knowing the risks from the treatment, along with the side effects, are important to know ahead of time. Lastly, inquire about the success rate of the treatment and when you should have a follow-up visit.

Will I be able to maintain my current lifestyle?

Many people who are diagnosed with a new condition are concerned with how it will impact their current lifestyle. You should address questions like How it will affect my ability to drive? Will I need a caretaker? or what way will it will affect my relationships? There are many changes that may need to take place so you should get these answers to your questions early on. It will help you better prepare for any lifestyle changes.

Where can I get more information about my condition?

Being diagnosed with a new neurological disease leaves lots of questions unanswered well after your doctor’s appointment.  You want to be able to access the most accurate information to help you through the days ahead.  During your doctor’s appointment, request information on where you can get additional resources to learn about the condition or where you can find support.  Many doctors are connected with support groups, helplines and booklets that can answer questions and give you the support you need.

At Palm Beach Neurological Center, we believe in providing you with all the answers you need to assist  with your neurological disease.  We frequently perform clinical studies for several types of neurological conditions and partner with support groups and provide additional resources to better educate yourself about your condition.  Learn more about the neurological conditions we treat.