by Badash M

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with asthma. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Tips for Getting Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask. They may also be able to provide more details to the doctor.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Do not be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.
  • Questions to Ask Your doctor

    About CAD
    • Do I have CAD?
    • How much blockage do I have in my arteries?
    About Your Risk of Getting CAD
    • Based on my health history, lifestyle, and family background, am I at risk for CAD?
    • How can I lower my risk of CAD?
    About Treatment Options
    • What are my treatment options?
    • Do I have to take medicine or will I need surgery?
    • If I have surgery, will I be cured?
    About Medicine
    • What kind of medicine do I have to take?
    • What should the medicine do?
    • Will I always have to take medicine?
    • What are the side effects that may happen? What should I do if I have any?
    • Where can I get more information about the medicine?
    • If the side effects are bad, can I take something else that works as well?
    About Lifestyle Changes
    • Are there physical activities that I should avoid? Is it safe to have sex?
    • How can I find help to stop smoking?
    • Can you refer me to a dietitian for help with meal planning?
    • What exercises are best and how much do I need?
    • Do I need to stop drinking alcohol?
    • If I change my lifestyle habits, will I still need to take medicine?
    About Outlook
    • What will happen over the next few weeks, months, and years?
    • Will my CAD get worse?
    • What are the most important things I can do to manage CAD?

    References

    C-reactive protein (CRP) as cardiac risk factor. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/evaluation/c-reactive-protein-crp-as-cardiac-risk-factor. Accessed April 27, 2022.

    Coronary artery disease (CAD). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/coronary-artery-disease-cad. Accessed April 27, 2022.

    Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Accessed May 2, 2022.

    What is coronary heart disease? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/coronary-heart-disease. Accessed April 27, 2022.

    Revision Information