A vital first step in coping with heart disease is to learn to speak to your health care provider about your questions and worries. You aren’t the only individual who has difficulties communicating their concerns to the health care provider who conducts your check-ups. But when it comes to heart health and wellness no question should be left unanswered.

There are those who hope that their questions will be answered through the course of an examination, rather than having to in fact voice them. Doctors don’t always have as much time as they would like with each patient due to their demanding schedules and long waiting lists. Women particularly have to speak up, since even though they suffer half the deaths from heart problems, doctors hesitate to talk about heart wellness in women.

Questions that you should ask your health care provider include things like what your blood pressure reading is and what is normal for you. You need to know what your blood cholesterol and glucose levels are and if they’re considered within range. Find out from your doctor what tests are recommended for your age group right now and in the future.

If you have been prescribed drugs, make certain you find out the purpose of the drug, if there are any negative reactions, and possible interactions with other meds, either over the counter or prescription. Ascertain whether you’ll be on the medication for an indefinite period of time or if it’s a short term treatment. Tests to monitor the effects of the medicine you’re taking need to be conducted at a later date if it’s suggested by your physician. The liver is one organ that most medical professionals think about testing when a patient is on certain medications.

If you find that you always forget to ask your health care provider something important, write down all your concerns before you get there. Do not forget to bring with you the medications that you’re presently on as well. If you have more than one health care provider, this is a must. Add to your list any surgeries or relevant illness that you have had and been treated for in the past few years. This needs to be recorded in your file so your doctor is up to speed on any potential problems.

If you’re concerned about forgetting what the health care provider tells you, be sure to take notes or even use a recording device to use for later reference. Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion if you are not comfortable with the advice and treatment recommendations of your doctor.

Preventing heart disease involves making long-term changes that will improve your heart health and decrease your risk of heart attack and stroke. Learn how to get started on the path to Heart Wellness.

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