Have your appointment scheduled, but you’re not sure what to say? These tips can help you get the most out of your provider visits.
- Write down symptoms you’ve experienced, along with where and when those symptoms occurred. This can help your provider narrow down the possible issues and help you manage your symptoms better.
- Bring your medications with you or make a list of every medication you’re taking. Don’t forget to include medications which are for conditions other than asthma, as they may impact your symptoms, or interact with your asthma medications.
- Think about questions your provider might ask you – like if you’ve had any colds lately which have taken a long time to get over, what irritants or triggers you experience, or any family history of severe allergy or asthma symptoms. Taking a second to write those answers down before your visit can help you be prepared when the moment comes.
- Consider questions you might want to ask your provider. These could be questions about possible side-effects to medications, or whether or not you need any additional testing.
- Review your own health goals. Let your provider know what kind of life you want to lead, and how they can help you meet your lifestyle goals. If you need more help getting ready for your next appointment, this tool has you covered: Getting Ready for Your Next Office Visit.
And remember: It's always important to take your asthma medications exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. This ensures that you keep your asthma well-managed. In the event that you do experience a severe asthma attack that requires a visit to urgent care, the emergency room, or a hospital stay, make sure to follow up with your primary care provider afterward. They can help you adjust your treatment plan, address any concerns, and work with you to prevent future emergencies. Staying on top of your medication regimen and maintaining regular communication with your healthcare team are key steps in keeping your asthma under control.
Looking for a provider that can help manage your asthma? Visit selecthealth.org/find-care. Select Health members call also our Member Advocates team at 800-515-2220 (TTY: 711).
The content included in these blogs is for your information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
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