10 Questions You Can Ask Your Doctor About GERD

Contents:

Medical Video: 5 Common Signs of GERD

Have you ever felt like you didn't know what to say to your doctor about your stomach ache? Most people often feel a little embarrassed when they talk to their doctor. Keep in mind that doctors may look scary but will help you find ways to treat your condition if you have gastric acid reflux (GERD).

When do I have to see a doctor?

You should contact a doctor if one of the following occurs:

  • Ulcer occurs 2 or more times a week
  • Your stomach gets worse
  • Ulcer occurs at night and wakes you up from sleep
  • You have had an ulcer for several years
  • You have difficulty or pain when swallowing
  • Discomfort or pain that interferes with your daily activities.

How do I talk to my doctor?

GERD can bring some unpleasant and embarrassing symptoms, such as bad breath and hoarseness, cracking sounds that make talking louder. But don't worry, even the smallest symptoms are important for doctors to treat your condition, even if you are embarrassed about it.

Sometimes you may experience symptoms that are not caused by GERD. Talk to your doctor about these symptoms so they can diagnose other conditions. Also don't forget to mention:

  • Your medical history. You can make a "health journal" for yourself on paper or on a notebook, and bring it to a doctor's meeting. Personal information, including whether you are under stress or if your life changes.
  • Every drug you are taking. Take it with you or write a list of all medicines. Include information about when and how often you drink it. You also have to write down the strength of the drug (for example, you take 150 mg or 200 mg).
  • Any side effects that you may experience from the drug, especially if you feel sick or if you think you might be allergic to it.
  • Every vitamin or supplement you use.
  • Every X-ray, test result or medical record is taken during a meeting with the doctor.

When you come for follow-up, you will need to update the symptoms, the reaction of the drug you are experiencing If you don't follow a doctor's prescription, tell your doctor. If you have trouble remembering or your schedule is correct, your doctor can change your treatment.

If you feel your doctor is like "nothing" or that you don't listen to you, you can always get their attention by saying hello.

What do I need to ask the doctor?

Before entering, you can write a list of questions:

  • What might cause symptoms in me? Can other conditions cause symptoms?
  • What type of test do I need? What are the side effects of this test and how do I prepare?
  • Do I need an endoscope?
  • Is my GERD temporary or chronic?
  • What can I predict about GERD from time to time? What complications of GERD might develop? What's the best course of action?
  • What are the alternatives to the main approach that you suggest?
  • I have other health conditions. What is the best way to treat it while monitoring GERD?
  • What changes in my lifestyle, for example, dietary habits, might be beneficial in addition to the treatment you recommend? Are there recipes that I need to follow?
  • Should I meet a specialist? What is the cost and can my insurance cover it?
  • Are there drugs that I have used or can they interact with the medication you are prescribing? Are there alternative generic prescription drugs for me?
  • Are there other brochures or printed materials that I can take? What site do you recommend?
  • Do I have to schedule a follow-up visit? What are the important symptoms or signs that I should pay attention to and report?

All good things come with good preparation. During a doctor's visit you have to think about what you want to talk about. During treatment, if there are complications that occur, you do not need to wait until the next meeting to see a doctor, instead, contact them for advice.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

10 Questions You Can Ask Your Doctor About GERD
Rated 4/5 based on 1007 reviews
💖 show ads