HealthyLife Articles

Category: Medical Care

Major Illness Warning Signs

Medical Care

It is better to prevent an illness than to get it. The next best thing is to detect and treat an illness early.

Prevention

* Maintain a healthy body weight.

* Do regular exercise.

* Eat healthy.

– Eat 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Eat whole-grain breads, cereals, and bran. Eat kidney and other beans, peas, and soy foods, such as tofu.

– Have 20 to 35 grams of dietary fiber a day.

– Follow a low saturated fat diet. Strictly limit trans fats.

– Limit cholesterol to 300 milligrams per day.

– Eat salt-cured, salt-pickled, and smoked foods only once in a while, if at all.

* Limit alcohol to 2 drinks per day for men; 1 drink per day for women and persons age 65 and older.

* Don’t smoke or use tobacco products. Avoid secondhand smoke.

* Limit exposure to cancer causing agents, such as asbestos, pesticides, etc.

* Have X-rays only when needed.

* Limit your exposure to the sun, sun lamps, and tanning booths. When you are in the sun, protect your skin.

* Manage stress.

* Take the medicines your doctor prescribes.

* Talk to your doctor about taking vitamins, minerals, and other supplements.

* Have regular health screenings.

* Ask your doctor if there are other things you can do to lower your risk for health problems, especially if you are at a high risk for them. Examples include:

– Breast cancer

– Diabetes

– Heart disease

– High blood pressure

– Osteoporosis

– Stroke

* Adults should also be screened for alcohol misuse, depression, obesity, and tobacco use. If you are at an increased risk for an illness, tests may need to be done sooner. Extra tests, such as screenings for diabetes, may also be needed. Follow your doctor’s advice.

1. Screening guidelines vary with different health groups. For ages 40-49 and 75+, discuss your risk for breast cancer and the pros and cons of screening with your doctor. If you are at a high risk for breast cancer, seek expert medical advice about screening and prevention.

2. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test screening guidelines vary with different health groups. Ask your doctor if and at what age you should start discussing the benefits and risks of getting PSA blood tests.

Cancer

When cancer first develops, there may be no pain or other signs. That’s why screening tests are important. As different types of cancers grow, warning signs may be present. These signs may be due to problems other than cancer, too. See your doctor to find out. In many cases, the sooner cancer is found and treated, the better the chances for a full recovery.

For Bladder Cancer

* Blood in the urine. The color of the urine can be deep red or it can be a faint rust or smokey color.

* Pain when you urinate.

* The need to urinate often or urgently.

For Breast Cancer

* A lump or thickening: In the breast; in the surrounding area; along the collar bone and below the breast; or in the underarm area.

* A change in the size or shape of the breast.

* A nonmilky or bloody discharge from the nipple.

* A change in the color or feel of the skin of the breast, nipple, or areola (the brown or pink area around the nipple). Dimpled, puckered, or scaly skin.

For Colon and Rectal Cancers

* A change in bowel habits.

* Constipation. Having stools more often and/or loose stools.

* A feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way.

* Blood in or on the stool. This can be bright red or very dark in color.

* Stools that are more narrow than usual.

* Stomach bloating, fullness, and/or cramps.

* Frequent gas pains.

* Weight loss for no known reason.

* Constant tiredness.

For Kidney Cancer

* Blood in the urine.

* A lump or mass that can be felt in the kidney area.

* A dull ache or pain in the back or side.

* An unexplained cough for more than 3 weeks.

For Lung Cancer

* A cough that doesn’t go away. This could be a “smoker’s cough” that gets worse.

* Constant chest pain. Back pain in some persons.

* Hoarseness.

* Shortness of breath and wheezing.

* Recurring pneumonia or bronchitis.

* Coughing up blood.

* Fatigue, appetite loss and weight loss.

* Weakness in your shoulder, arm, or hand.

For Ovarian Cancer

Often, there are no early symptoms. When symptoms appear, they include:

* Swelling, bloated feeling, or discomfort in the lower abdomen.

* Feeling full even after a light meal. Loss of appetite and weight.

* Gas. Indigestion. Nausea.

* Diarrhea, constipation, or frequent urination.

* Bleeding from the vagina.

Often, the cancer has spread by the time it is found.

For Prostate Cancer

Early prostate cancer often does not cause symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:

* A need to pass urine often, especially at night.

* A hard time starting to urinate, holding back urine, or not being able to pass urine.

* Weak or interrupted flow of urine.

* Pain or burning feeling when you pass urine.

* Pain when you ejaculate.

* Blood in the urine or semen.

* Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs.

For Testicular Cancer

* A lump in a testicle

* A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum

* A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin

* A sudden build up of fluid in the scrotum

* Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum

* Enlarged or tender breasts

Males aged 15 and older should do a testicular self-exam (TSE) if and as often as advised by their doctors to look for any lumps or changes in the size or shape of a testicle.

For Throat Cancer

* Hoarseness or other changes in the voice

* A lump on the neck or feeling of a lump in the throat

* A cough that doesn’t go away

* A hard time swallowing. A feeling of fullness, pressure, or burning when swallowing.

* Repeated cases of indigestion and heartburn. Frequent vomiting or choking on food.

* Pain behind the breastbone or in the throat

Basal and Squamous Cell Cancers

* Basal cell. More than 90% of all skin cancers in the U.S. are this type. It grows slowly. It seldom spreads to other parts of the body.

* Squamous cell. This type of skin cancer spreads more often than the basal cell type. It is still rare for it to spread, though.

Basal and squamous cell cancers are found mainly on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun, like the head, face, neck, hands, and arms. These skin cancers can occur anywhere, though.

Early Warning Signs of Basal and Squamous Cell Cancers

Small, smooth, shiny, pale, or waxy lump.

Firm red lump.

A lump that bleeds or develops a crust.

A flat, red spot that is rough, dry, or scaly.

Warning Signs of Melanoma

The first sign can be a change in an existing mole or a new or “ugly-looking” mole. The letters “ABCDE” can identify signs.

Skin Self-Exam

* Do an exam monthly, after a shower or bath. To check your skin, use:

– A well-lit room

– A full-length mirror

– A hand-held mirror

* Locate your birthmarks, moles, and blemishes. Check for a change in the size, texture, or color of a mole. Check for a sore that does not heal.

Check all areas.

1. Look at the front and back of your body in the mirror. Raise your arms and look at your left and right sides.

2. Bend your elbows and look carefully at the palms of your hands. Look at both sides of your forearms and upper arms.

3. Look at the back and front of your legs. Look between the buttocks and around the genital area.

4. Sit and closely examine your feet. Look at the soles and between the toes.

5. Look at your face, neck, and scalp. Use a comb to move your hair so you can see your scalp.

See your doctor if you find anything unusual.

Diabetes

One in three people who have diabetes do not know they have it. See your doctor if you have one or more of the signs listed below.

Signs of Diabetes:

* Frequent urination

* Excessive thirst

* Extreme hunger

* Unusual weight loss

* Increased fatigue

* Irritability

* Blurry vision

In type 1 diabetes, symptoms tend to come on quickly. With this type, the body either makes no insulin or only very small amounts.

In type 2 diabetes, symptoms tend to come on more slowly. The body does not make enough insulin or can’t use it the right way. This type most often occurs in persons who are over age 40, are overweight, and who don’t exercise.

Pre-diabetes occurs before type 2 diabetes. Getting diagnosed and treated for this can keep you from getting type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes can be present without symptoms. Follow your doctor’s advice to screen for diabetes. Early detection and treatment lower the chances of diabetes complications.

Heart Attack

Heart Attack Warning Signs

If heart attack warning signs occur, call 9-1-1 or your local rescue squad right away!

See your doctor if you have one or more of these signs and symptoms:

* Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back. The discomfort feels like pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain.

* Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. This can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms or in the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

* Shortness of breath. Often, this comes with chest discomfort. But it can also come before the chest discomfort.

* Other symptoms. These can include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or being lightheaded.

The most common heart attack symptom for both men and women is chest pain or discomfort. But women are more likely than men to have some of the other common signs, especially shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Lupus

Lupus is an immune system disorder. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, and nervous system.

Warning signs of lupus:

* Joints ache and swell for more than 3 months.

* Fingers get pale, numb, or ache in the cold temperatures.

* Mouth sores last for more than 2 weeks.

* Blood tests show: Anemia; low white cell count, or low platelet count; and/or protein in the urine.

* A rash occurs across the nose and cheeks. It lasts for more than 1 month.

* Skin rash (not sunburn) occurs after being in the sun.

* Pain lasts for more than 2 days when taking deep breaths.

* A seizure or convulsion occurs.

Let your doctor know if you have or have had any of these warning signs. Having 3 or more of these signs may suggest lupus.

Stroke

Stroke Warning Signs

* Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body

* Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding

* Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes

* Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

* Sudden severe headache with no known cause

If stroke warning signs occur, call 9-1-1 or your local rescue squad right away!

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Save If You Have Insurance

Medical Care

Know health insurance terms and plans.

This allows you to make wise choices. Read “Questions and Answers About Health Insurance – A Consumer Guide” fromwww.ahrq.gov/consumer/insuranceqaandwww.healthdecisions.org.

If you can get health insurance through work, do it.

More often than not, it will cost you less than if you buy it on your own. If you can choose from more than one plan, compare the options. The best deal may not be the cheapest plan. It is the one that gives the best price for the benefits you need and are most likely to use. If you need help to understand the options, ask your employer. Get facts from the insurance company’s Web site and/or customer service representative, too.

Raise your deductible.

Your deductible is the amount you must pay before your health insurance kicks in. Like car insurance, monthly premiums cost less if you pay a higher deductible. Healthy adults can usually save money with this option.

Check into a Consumer Driven Health Plan.

This gives you greater control over how you use your health care benefits. You pay a high deductible. You pay for your health care costs from a tax-exempt health account. If you expect to be healthy, this may be a good choice for you.

Read your health plan.

Read what products and services are covered before you pay for them on your own. Take advantage of covered services, such as dental checkups and cleanings twice a year. You may find out that your health plan covers some of the costs for flu vaccines and other services.

Student health insurance.

Find out about student health insurance from your child’s school or college, especially if your child plans to study abroad.

Be Medicare aware.

Medicare is the U.S. government’s health insurance for persons age 65 or older. It also covers people under age 65 who have disabilities. Find out when you will be eligible for Medicare fromwww.medicare.govor by calling 800.MEDICARE (633.4227).

* When you are enrolled in Medicare, you get Medicare Part A. This covers medical costs when you are in the hospital.

* Medicare Part B covers things that Part A does not. Examples are doctors’ fees, outpatient hospital costs, physical therapy, etc. You pay a monthly premium for this.

* Medicare Part D helps cover the cost of prescribed medicines.

Fill in the gaps.

Find ways to pay for services not covered by your insurance plan.

* If you have Medicare, you can buy Medigap, Medicare Select, or Medicare Advantage HMO insurance to help pay for services not covered by Medicare. Contact your state health insurance department to find out about your choices for each of these health plans. You need only one of these. For free help choosing a Medicap policy, call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program.

* Look into extra coverage from providers, such as Aflac.

Pay premiums on time.

If you don’t, your coverage could be cancelled.

Know about COBRA.

This stands for Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act. COBRA is temporary health insurance. It applies to former employees, retirees, spouses, former spouses, and dependent children who are no longer covered under an employer health insurance plan. It lets you keep the same health insurance for 18 months (sometimes longer) if you pay for it yourself. Find out more about COBRA fromwww.dol.gov/dol/topic/health-plans/cobra.htm. Know, too, that it may cost you less to buy your own health insurance than to pay what COBRA will cost you, especially if you are in good health and have no pre-existing health problems.

Find out who to contact when the insurance company denies a claim.

Sometimes claims are rejected by mistake. When this happens, you can usually clear up the mistake by calling or writing a letter to your insurance company. Keep copies of all bills, letters, and notes from phone calls. Put your policy and claim numbers on all letters or e-mails. Call your insurance company if you don’t get an answer within a few weeks.

Keep up-to-date.

Find out how you learn about updates and changes in your health plan. Do you get notified by mail or by e-mail? Do you need to check the health plan’s Web site? How do you add a new dependent to the plan? Also, find out when you can change the plan you have. Often, you can only do this during open enrollment.

Know before you go.

Call your health insurance company before you have a medical service. Some services are only covered if the insurance company approves them first and/or if they are done at certain locations or by certain providers.

One may be enough.

If both you and your spouse both have health insurance through work, choose the plan that works best. Decide if it is better to keep separate plans or if it would cost less for either of you to join the other’s plan. Your employer may let you take cash or other benefits instead of health insurance. Keep the better policy if you can and “cash in” on the other one. Also, find out which policy covers your children better. Think about future needs, too. For prenatal and delivery costs to be covered, a woman may need to be a member of the plan for nine or more months before she gets pregnant.

Take advantage of FSAs.

Find out if your employer offers a Flexible Spending Account (FSA). This lets you set aside some money for medical expenses for the year. You could choose to set aside $1,000. This is usually taken out of your paycheck, but you don’t pay federal income tax or Social Security tax on this money. But be careful how much you put into your FSA. You lose any money you don’t spend on health care in the year. Look at last year’s health care expenses for a ballpark figure on what you think you will likely spend. Don’t count any money that is taken from your paycheck for insurance premiums. Do count deductibles, co-pays, and treatments your insurance doesn’t cover.

Use it before you lose it!

If you are going to lose your health insurance, you are part of a growing trend in the U.S. Schedule doctor visits and other health care services before expenses will no longer be covered.

Before you travel, check out your health insurance coverage.

Are you covered where you are going? If not, ask your health insurance provider how to get coverage while you are gone. You can also find out about travel health insurance fromwww.travelrinsurance.com.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
When In Doubt, Get A Second Opinion

Medical Care

The very first thing you should do if a doctor suggests surgery is to get the opinion of a second doctor. Programs to encourage patients to pursue other options have been established all over the country in an effort to curtail unnecessary surgery.

Ask your physician or someone else you trust to recommend a non-surgeon or another surgeon, not affiliated with the same hospital as your physician, who will review your case and offer an opinion. Generally, you should not submit to surgery on the basis of one medical opinion alone.

The following table indicates the percentage of surgeries not recommended by the physician giving a second opinion.

Always check with your insurance company to see if (and how much of) the cost of a second opinion will be covered. Most policies include this feature. If you have Medicare, call 1.800.MEDICARE (633.4227) for information on second surgical opinions.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Choose Benefit Options With Both Cost And Care In Mind

Medical Care

* Signing up for the same plan as the one you have is easy, but spending time to find out about all options could be worth it. Ask your employer for written materials for your options or how to access the information online.

* Estimate what your costs for the coming year will be using each option. Your company’s or insurance company’s website may have tools to help you do this.

* Consider a flexible spending account (FSA) to help pay for health care expenses. It also offers tax advantages. To determine how much to put into an FSA, add up out-of-pocket costs you expect to pay for the coming year. These include co-pays, deductibles, cost for eyeglasses, contact lenses, etc.

* The best deal may not be the cheapest plan, but the one that gives the best price for the benefits you are most likely to use.

* Find out if you can lower your health care premium costs by taking part in certain wellness and disease management programs offered through work.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
How To Make The Most Of A Doctor Visit

Medical Care

When a doctor knows how to really communicate well with a patient, it can make a big difference in how that patient responds. But communication is a two-way process. Listening as well as speaking to one another is something both doctor and patient must work on together. Being honest and open with each other is also important.

What Your Doctor Should Know about You

Aside from a general health history, it is important that your doctor ask certain questions about the following:

* Dietary habits (Are you a frequent junk-food eater? Are you especially fond of cheesecake, sour cream, or other fatty foods?)

* Your occupation (Do you work in a high-stress job? Are you exposed to nickel, nuclear power radiation, or other toxic substances?)

* Sleep habits (Do you frequently awaken before dawn or have problems getting to sleep?)

* Family problems (Are you currently going through a divorce?)

* Lifestyle (Do you get any exercise?)

* Stress (Do you work in a noisy environment?)

* Health attitude (Are you serious about quitting smoking?)

* History of family illness (Does heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney problems, or cancer run in your family?)

* Major life events (Have you recently retired from work?)

* Living arrangements (Do you live alone?)

Quizzing Your Doctor

Often, patients feel rushed or uneasy during a doctor visit. And when you’re sick, there is a tendency to feel vulnerable and passive. But by heeding these suggestions, you can still make the most of your doctor-patient communications.

* Repeat back in your own words what the doctor has told you.

* Use simple phrases like “Do I hear you say that… ?” or “My understanding of the problem is. . .”

* Plan ahead of time what you will say to your doctor about your problem. Your observations about a health problem can be invaluable in making a diagnosis.

* Take notes on what is wrong and what you need to do.

* If you are confused by medical terms, ask for simple definitions. There is no need to be embarrassed by this.

* When a medication is prescribed, ask about its possible side effects, its effectiveness, and how long it must be taken.

* If your doctor discusses surgery, ask about alternatives, risks, and a second opinion.

* Be frank with the doctor if any part of the office visit is annoying, such as lengthy waiting time or discourteous staff. Be tactful, but honest.

* Don’t be afraid to voice your fears or apprehensions about what you’ve heard. The doctor may be able to clarify any misconceptions.

* Discuss any self-care practices you’ve used that have relieved symptoms.

* Find out the best time for the doctor to receive your phone calls should any questions arise.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Save If You Have No Insurance

Medical Care

Look into getting some.

Insurance costs money, but having none may end up costing you more. Medical costs from a chronic illness, surgery, etc. could erase any savings you have and may cause you to file for bankruptcy. Discuss your health needs and ability to pay for premiums with an insurance broker. Find out about health insurance in your state fromwww.naic.org/state_web_map.htm.

You may need short-term coverage.

If you are between jobs, a recent college graduate, etc., contact an insurance broker about short-term health insurance. This has a low monthly cost and high coverage limits for most (especially healthy) people. Read about COBRA in tip number 60, too.

Look into group coverage.

Find out if you can get health insurance from groups you belong to, such as AARP. Your costs are likely to be cheaper than if you buy an individual policy. If you are a veteran or a dependent of a veteran, find out if you are eligible for health care fromwww.va.gov/health/index.aspor from 800.827.1000.

Look into an HSA.

This is a Health Savings Account. It is also called a Medical Savings Account (MSA). It is like an IRA, but is used for medical costs. Instead of paying the costs for a fee-for-service health plan, you pay the cost for two things. One is a high deductible policy. The other is a tax-deductible savings account. You take money out of the savings account for medical costs when they are needed. Money not used from the savings account grows interest on a tax-sheltered basis and can be used to add funds to your retirement. Find out more about HSAs fromwww.msainfo.netandwww.consumerdrivenhealthcare.us. An MSA is a kind of Consumer Driven Health Plan.

Know about “Insure Kids Now!”

Infants, children, and teens may be able to get free or low-cost health insurance from your state. Find out from 877.KIDS NOW (543.7669) orwww.insurekidsnow.com.

Honesty is the best policy.

If you give false information on insurance forms, your coverage could be cancelled. Before you sign the dotted line, read the fine print. Find out if any conditions would limit or cancel your coverage.

Know about clinical trials.

You may be able to get expert medical care if you take part in a clinical trial. Find out what clinical trials are and which ones you could qualify for fromwww.clinicaltrials.gov. Find out about studies on mental health and disorders fromwww.nimh.nih.gov/health/ trials/index.shtml.

If you are on a very limited income, find out if you qualify for Medicaid.

Contactwww.cms.hhs.gov. Medicaid is a state sponsored health care program.

If you cannot pay for health care.

Contact the Bureau of Primary Health Care. Use the Web sitewww.findahealthcenter.hrsa.govto find a clinic in your area that will give you medical care at a reduced cost or for free. Search the Internet, too, for “National Free Clinic Directory.” Also, contact a social worker at your local hospital or community health agency to recommend resources that can help with medical problems.

Opt for medical coverage with your auto insurance plan.

This can cover expenses for medical services if you and passengers are injured in an accident.

Find out about free and low-cost cancer screening.

* The American Cancer Society at 800.227.2345 orwww.cancer.org.

* The National Comprehensive Cancer Control Program atwww.cdc.gov/cancer/screening.htm.

Find out if you have a health credit report.

Before you buy a health insurance plan, contact the Medical Information Bureau (MIB). The MIB keeps track of medical information on persons who have applied for individual disability, health or life insurance in the past seven years. You can get a copy of your record fromwww.mib.comor by calling 866.692.6901.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
When To Refuse Tests Or Surgery

Medical Care

It has been estimated that at least one-quarter of medical tests done each year are not needed. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that nearly 60 percent of the study’s 2,800 pre-surgery tests were not warranted because there were no symptoms indicating that the tests should be done. Just 22 percent of the tests studied yielded results, and even these played a very small role in treatment. Yet medical tests make up about half of the typical patient’s hospital charges, according to David Sobel, M.D., the director of patient education at Kaiser Permanente.

Be frank with your doctor and ask for an explanation of why a particular test is being done. You’ll want to ask the following:

* Will the test results determine the treatment?

* Are there risks to the testing?

* Are there alternatives?

* Can outpatient testing be considered?

If your doctor recommends a hysterectomy, tonsillectomy, coronary bypass, or gallbladder removal, ask questions about alternatives. According to Eugene Rubin, M.D., of Stanford University, these procedures are among the surgeries performed excessively. Others that Dr. Rubin lists are:

* Dilatation and curettage (D and C).

* Cesarean sections.

* Pacemaker insertion.

* Joint surgery.

Find out about the following:

* Alternatives that are not as radical as surgery.

* If it would be risky to postpone the surgery.

* If the surgery is not effective, what treatment you should try next.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Choosing A Doctor Or Health Care Provider

Medical Care

Finding the right doctor or health care provider for you is a big part of your medical care. Don’t wait until you get sick to find one. When you look for or change doctors, follow these tips:

* Look for one who accepts your health plan. Check with the plan. Ask the person at work who handles employee benefits.

* If you belong to a managed care plan, get a list of providers who work with the plan. Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) are two types of managed care plans. The doctor(s) you see now may be on your HMO or PPO list.

* Ask relatives and friends for doctors they trust and have given them good medical care.

* Find out if a doctor is taking new patients. Check with your health plan. Call the doctor’s office.

* Look for a doctor you can relate to. How do you want medical decisions to be made? The doctor alone? You and the doctor together? Find one that meets your needs.

* Ask about office hours and staffing. Ask how many patients are scheduled to be seen in an hour and how long they usually wait to see the doctor.

* Ask how payment is handled. Must you pay at the time of your visit or can you be billed?

* Find out what other providers serve as backups when the doctor is away. Ask what you should do at non-office hour times.

* Find out which hospital(s) the doctor or provider sends patients to.

* Look for a doctor who is competent and can care for all your general health needs. Ask if and who the doctor will refer you to for any special health needs.

Resources

American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS)

866.ASK.ABMS (275.2267)

www.abms.org

Federation of State Medical Boards

888.ASK.FCVS (275.3287)

www.fsmb.org

Health Grades

www.healthgrades.com

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

www.healthfinder.gov

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Making Medical Decisions

Medical Care

Describe the Problem

Be Able to Answer These Questions About Your Current Problem and Complaints

* What do you think the problem is?

* Are you in pain? If yes:

– What does the pain feel like? Is it a sharp, dull, and/or throbbing pain?

– Where is the pain?

* When did the problem(s) start? Has it changed since then?

* What makes it go away?

* Have you felt like this before? Is so, when? What made it go away then?

* Have you had any other symptoms or signs lately? Examples are:

– Fever.

– Blood in the urine.

– Shortness of breath.

– Anxiety.

– Insomnia.

Be Able to Give This Information About Your Health

* Your medical history and your family’s medical history.

* Allergies you have.

* Medications you take.

* Your daily habits.

* Your work.

* Pressures you are under.

Ask for a Diagnosis

Your Doctor or Health Care Provider Makes a Diagnosis From

* Symptoms (things you feel, such as pain).

* Signs (things that can be seen or measured, such as swelling).

* Exams and tests.

When Your Doctor or Health Care Provider Gives You A Diagnosis

* Ask him or her to explain the diagnosis in detail.

* Ask questions if you don’t understand. If you need to, bring a trusted family member or friend with you to help ask questions.

* Find out if your condition is chronic or acute. A chronic one lasts a long time. An acute one comes on suddenly and doesn’t last long. If your condition is chronic, find out how it will affect your life.

* Ask if the diagnosis increases your risk for any other problems. If so, find out what they are and what you can do to prevent them.

Other Things to Ask

* Is my condition contagious? If so, how do I not spread it?

* Is my condition genetic? If so, what does this mean for others in my family?

* How certain are you about this diagnosis? Are there are other symptoms to look for that would help confirm or disprove the diagnosis?

* What books, pamphlets, and computer Web sites can I use to find out more about my condition? What organizations can I contact? Is there a support group in my area for this condition?

Find Out About Treatment

Ask your doctor or health care provider to state clearly and simply what the proposed treatment is. If medication is prescribed, ask these questions:

* What is the name of the medicine? Write down the name and dose.

* What will the medicine do?

* Is there a less expensive, generic form?

* When, how often, and for how long, should I take the medicine?

* Do I take this medicine until I feel better or until it is used up?

* When will the medicine start to work?

* Could there be side effects? What should I do if they occur? What side effects should I let you know about?

* Is this medicine okay to use with other medications I take?

* Is there anything else I should or should not do while taking the medicine?

– Should I take this medicine with or without food?

– Is there anything I should not eat or drink when I take this medicine? Can I take this medicine with grapefruit juice?

– Can I have alcohol?

– Do I need to stay out of the sun?

* What should I do if I miss a dose?

If Surgery is Prescribed

* Find out about the alternatives to surgery.

* Consider getting a second opinion. Your health insurance may require this.

* Find out if your health insurance plan will pay for the surgery.

* Ask what types of surgery there are for your condition.

* Ask for a step-by-step account of the procedure. Find out what you need to do before surgery. Find out what is done during and after surgery. This includes anesthesia and recovery.

Questions to Ask if A Test is Prescribed

* What is the test called? How will it help tell what is wrong?

* Will it give specific or general information?

* If the answer is general, where do we go from here?

* How accurate and reliable is the test?

* Is the test invasive or noninvasive? Invasive means something, such as a catheter, chemical dye, etc., is inserted into the body. Nothing is inserted into the body with an noninvasive test. Examples are blood pressure readings and simple chest x-rays.

* What will I have to do to prepare for the test?

* Where do I go for the test?

* How and when will I get the test’s results?

* Will more tests be needed?

Ask About Benefits

Medical treatments change over time as researchers learn more and technology improves. Make certain that you and your health care provider have access to the latest and best information.

* Find out how the proposed treatment will improve your condition.

– Will it cure the problem?

– Will it help with symptoms?

– Can it lead to other problems?

* Discuss with your health care provider what you expect the proposed treatment will do. Make sure you are being realistic about what you expect.

* Find out what will happen if you don’t have the treatment.

A good rule of thumb is to make sure one strong reason can stand alone to justify going ahead with the treatment. In many cases, two or more not-so-strong reasons may not be enough. Discuss your concerns with your health care provider and loved ones.

Ask About Risks

If surgery is prescribed, ask about the risks for these things, during and after surgery:

* Pain.

* Anesthesia.

* Infection.

* Accidental injury.

* Heavy bleeding (hemorrhage).

* Another unplanned operation.

* Death.

* Weigh the risks versus the benefits before you decide to proceed with treatment. Discuss your concerns with your health care provider and others close to you.

* With your health care provider, chart the risks and benefits. On a sheet of paper, draw a line down the center. List the risks on one side. List the benefits on the other. Weigh each item on a scale from 1 to 5 (1 = not so important; 5 = very important). Add up the columns to see which one has a higher score.

* Ask about risks before you get any test or X-ray, no matter how minor it may be. If you are not asked about allergies, state them ahead of time. If you are female, tell your health care provider if you are or may be pregnant. If so, you should not get X-rays unless they are absolutely necessary.

Find Out Costs

* What is the cost of the proposed treatment?

* Does this include the cost for follow-up? If so, how much is covered?

* Check with your insurance plan to see what it will pay and how much you will have to pay.

* Ask what you need to do to get maximum benefits. An example is pre-authorization for surgery. Find out if your health care provider and hospital accept your insurance.

* What related costs do I need to consider? Look into costs of medication, costs for time off work and child care and transportation costs.

Find Out Success Rates

The success rate is how often a treatment works compared to how many times it is done. For example, if a certain surgery has been done 100 times and was successful 80 times, it has a success rate of 80%.

If surgery is prescribed, ask your health care provider and the medical facility where you will have the surgery these questions:

* What is the national success rate?

* What is the success rate at the hospital/medical facility where my treatment is planned?

* What is the surgeon’s success rate and experience with the surgery?

* How many procedures are the above success rates based on?

* Are there any personal factors that will affect my odds either way?

* How long will the results of my surgery/treatment last?

According to several studies, you are less likely to die or suffer complications from surgery or other procedures if you go to an accredited hospital that performs a large number of that procedure each year. Some experts advise at least 200 surgeries. If you are given a success rate percentage, find out how many procedures the percentage is based on. A success rate of 80% doesn’t mean much if it is based on only 5 surgeries. For more information on hospital surgical success rates, read the book Best Medicine by Bob Arnot, M.D.

Ask About Other Options

Discuss other options that can diagnose and/or treat your condition. There is usually more than one option. Sometimes, the best choice at the time may be no choice. This is called “wait and see.” If this doesn’t work for you, make a list of other options. Ask your doctor or health care provider these questions:

* What might happen if I decide to do nothing?

* What are my other options?

– Ask about options that don’t need surgery, such as lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, stopping smoking, etc.).

– If surgery is proposed, ask about outpatient surgery, laser treatment, laporascopic surgery, and the newest ways to treat your condition.

* If you are not satisfied with your options, discuss this with your provider. If you are still not satisfied, consider consulting another health care provider.

* Look into every option in depth.

Ask When Treatment Should Begin

When you decide to go ahead with a treatment plan, ask these questions:

* When is the best time to get started with the plan?

* Do I have to undergo treatment right away? If not, how long can I safely wait? Don’t assume that it has to be done as soon as possible. You may be able to delay the treatment until a time that best fits your schedule.

* Decide the best time for you to begin the treatment.

Make a Decision

After you get the answers from steps 1 to 9, decide what to do.

* You can also decide to refuse treatment, but you should ask your health care provider what can happen if you do this.

* If you feel rushed or uncomfortable when you discuss your decision with your doctor or health care provider, tell him or her how you feel.

* Read about “Informed Consent” and “Advanced Directives” on the last 2 panels. If you have not already done so, consider writing a living will or signing a durable power of attorney for health care.

Informed Consent

Informed consent is a legal issue in medicine. It means that you agree to treatment only after it has been explained to you and that you understand it. You should know:

* The nature of the treatment.

* Its benefits and risks.

* The likelihood of the treatment’s success.

* If your treatment is experimental in nature.

The physician should review any options you can get instead of surgery or other procedures. There are no guaranteed outcomes in medicine, but informed consent enables YOU to make a rational and educated decision about your treatment. It also promotes greater understanding and joint decision making between you and your health care provider. With informed consent:

* You cannot demand services that go beyond what are considered “acceptable” practices of medicine or that violate professional ethics.

* You must recognize that you may be faced with some uncertainties or unpleasantness.

* You should, if competent, be responsible for your choices. Don’t have others make decisions for you.

* You should also know about “Advance Directives.”

Advance Directives

Advance directives are a legal way for you to state your wishes to choose or refuse medical treatment. There are two types of advance directives:

* Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care – This document names a person(s) who would make treatment decisions for you if you are not able to make them yourself. This person would state your wishes. Your condition does not have to be terminal or irreversible to have someone speak on your behalf.

* Living Will – This written document states what medical treatment you would want or not want. A living will applies only when you can’t express your wishes on your own and you suffer from a terminal illness or condition and aren’t expected to survive.

In writing, you may choose or refuse:

* Measures to Support Life, such as a respirator (a machine to breathe for you).

* Measures to Sustain Life, such as tube feedings and kidney dialysis (a machine that does the work of your kidneys).

* Measures to Enhance Life. These keep you comfortable, but don’t prolong life. Examples are pain medications and hospice care.

Each state has its own laws on advance directives. Get forms for them from your lawyer, local hospital or library, or from your state’s Web site. You can also get forms and information from these Web sites:www.putitinwriting.organdwww.uslivingwillregistry.com.

After you complete advance directives, discuss them with your family and close friends. Give your doctor a copy, too.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Save On Dental Care

Medical Care

Take care of those teeth.

Get a dental checkup twice a year. Brush your teeth two times a day. Floss one or more times a day. You will have something to smile about when you hear “no cavities” and receive lower dental bills.

Look for advertised specials.

Many dentists offer specials or discounts to attract new patients. These include free X-rays, cleanings, and/or exams. Even if you have a regular dentist, you can take advantage of these services. Go back to your regular dentist for other work. Look for advertised specials in direct mail packs and local newspapers.

Save with managed care dental plans.

If your health insurance plan offers an HMO or PPO option, use one of its dentists. You could save between 25 and 50% on your dental bills.

Find out about free and low-cost dental clinics and providers.

Get information fromwww.nidcr.nih.gov/FindingDentalCare.

Save money at dental schools.

They give discounts to patients willing to trust dental students. Licensed dentists or dental hygienists supervise the students. Find out where dental schools are located atwww.nidcr.nih.gov.

X-rays to go.

Dental X-rays are expensive and expose you to radiation. If you switch dentists, want a second opinion, or must see a specialist, take your X-rays with you. Just ask your dentist or his or her staff for them.

Materials matter.

Some types of fillings, bridges, and crowns cost more than others. Talk with your dentist about the ones that suit your needs, as well as your budget. Ask about OTC products to whiten your teeth.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026