Questions to ask your doctor

Return to Index Step 1: What is an Allergy?Step 2: The Role of the Immune System Step 3: What Substances Cause Allergies?Step 4: Allergy-Related Conditions Step 5: Should You See an Allergist?Step 6: Allergy Testing and Diagnosis Step 7: Introduction to Allergy Treatment Step 8: Avoid Allergy Triggers Step 9: Types of Allergy Medication Step 10: Over-the-Counter vs Prescription Drugs Step 11: Immunotherapy Step 12: You and Your Doctor Are a Team Key Points Glossary

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Ever been to the doctor and then realized you forgot to ask some of your questions? Most of us can relate to that! Sometimes, you're hit with so much information at the doctor that it's too much to absorb all at once. This sheet can help you get the most from your visit if you print it and bring it with you. The first questions are for you to prepare beforehand, so you can give your doctor well thought-out information about your history with allergies.

Symptoms

What are your allergy symptoms? (List all.)
How long ago did your symptoms start?
Do your symptoms happen throughout the year or just during certain months?
What do you think causes your symptoms?

Drugs you've taken

What prescription drugs are you taking (or have taken in the past)?
What over-the-counter drugs are you taking (or taken in the past)?
What vitamins or herbal supplements are you taking?
Has anything helped?
Are you allergic to any drugs?

Allergy history

What allergies have you been treated for in the past? (e.g., pollen, mold, dust, food, animal dander)
Have you ever been hospitalized for an allergy (including emergency room treatment)?

Questions about any medication your doctor prescribes

What is the name of the drug your doctor gave you?
What symptoms is the drug supposed to relieve? (Why are you taking it?)
What is the dosage for the drug? (How much should you take?)
How often and when should you take the drug? (i.e., twice a day, before bed, with food, etc.)
How long do you take the drug? (i.e., two weeks, until the medication is used up, etc.)
What are the possible side effects of the drug?
List any additional comments you want to remember about the drug.

Review Date: 6/29/2011
Reviewed By: Paula J. Busse, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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