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When Tim moved from England to the United States and married the woman of his dreams, he knew there would be challenges. He wasn't expecting relapsing MS to be one of them. Follow Tim on his journey as he balances many roles in life: husband, father, ambassador, and writer.
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This journal reflects the personal experience of one person and others can be different. It is best to contact your physician to discus what’s best for you. Tim is an MS LifeLines Ambassador and has chosen to share his story with others living with MS. MS LifeLines and MS LifeLines Ambassadors are sponsored by EMD Serono and Pfizer.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Making the Most of Your Next Neurologist Appointment
My neurologist is great. I'm sure he gives every one of his patients more time than is allotted. (This is, of course, a blessing when you're in there asking questions, but a curse when you're waiting for the previous patient to ask his or hers!) But even with a helpful doctor and without being rushed, those precious appointments can all too easily be squandered if you're not prepared.
Obviously, the doctor is going to give you that all-too-familiar neurological exam (hello tuning fork, my old friend), ask how you've been feeling, and perhaps order an MRI and a blood test or two. After that, it's up to you to make the most of your co-pay. Here's what has worked for me:
Obviously, the doctor is going to give you that all-too-familiar neurological exam (hello tuning fork, my old friend), ask how you've been feeling, and perhaps order an MRI and a blood test or two. After that, it's up to you to make the most of your co-pay. Here's what has worked for me:
- Keep a health/treatment journal. Note anything out of the ordinary or concerning. Remember to bring it with you!
- Bring a care partner with you if you can. My wife knows as well as I do how I've been feeling (from listening to all my complaining). She's definitely more in tune with any cognitive issues. Best of all, she might just remember some of it. Remember to bring them with you!
- Be educated about your disease and its management. You can't suggest and discuss the merits of a treatment if you've never heard of it. Bring your research with you!
- Write down the questions you want to ask whenever they come to you. Bring your list with you! (And don't be afraid to ask them.)
Posted by: Tim, Monday, August 31, 2009
