National Doctor’s Day 2024: 5 Essential Questions To Ask Your Doctor During A Routine Checkup

Being proactive and vocal about your health is crucial. Asking questions during a doctor’s visit fosters an informative dialogue between you and your doctor. It’s essential to take the initiative to ask about your health and treatment procedures. Without questions, your doctor might assume you understand everything, potentially leading to misunderstandings and trial-and-error treatment. Routine check-ups are vital as they provide insights into your health and detect issues early. On World Doctor’s Day 2024, Dr. Samir Garde, Director of the Department of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, shared five essential questions to ask during a routine checkup.

5 Basic Questions to Ask During Routine Checkup

1. How is my overall health?
   Start your visit by asking about your general health. This opens the door to discussing any concerns and getting expert guidance. It gives your doctor a chance to provide detailed insights into your current health and suggest necessary precautions.
2. Is my current medication effective, or does it need alteration?
   If you are on medication or supplements, ask about their effectiveness. This helps you understand if they are beneficial or need adjustments. Inform your doctor about any allergic reactions or side effects you experience. Learn about potential side effects and benefits to avoid complications.
3. What lifestyle changes should I make?
   Poor lifestyle choices can severely impact your health, leading to conditions like cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and depression. Discussing these issues during your checkup can help you get a tailored plan and supplements to mitigate these risks.
4. Any recommendations on screening or certain tests?
   Screenings and tests are crucial for early detection of health issues. Ask if you need specific tests based on your age, health, and medical history. Screenings might include blood pressure checks, diabetes screening, cancer screening, and cholesterol checks.
5. What are potential symptoms to be aware of?
   When starting new medication or supplements, ask about potential symptoms to watch for. Knowing what to expect can help you stay calm and manage any intense symptoms effectively.

Taking active steps to understand your health can lead to better treatment outcomes.