A closer relationship with your doctor can help improve health outcomes, and that’s especially true when you’re dealing with your internal medicine doctor. This is the medical professional that you’ll probably see the most, and they are prepared to help you with a wide range of health issues. When you visit one of the internists here at Matthews Internal Medicine, here are some questions that you might want to ask.
Which Screenings and Tests Should I Get?
Because your internal medicine doctor sees you often, they’ll know best which kinds of diseases or health problems you need to be on the lookout for. They know about your existing health issues. Hopefully you’ve filled in some family history for them as well. That way, when you ask which kinds of screenings or medical tests you should get, your internal medicine doctor will know which ones are a high priority
Do I Need Any Vaccines?
Vaccinations are important. Recent advances have helped practically wipe out diseases that were commonplace decades ago. Ask your internal medicine doctor about which vaccines you need, especially if you work in a career where you might be exposed to more types of illnesses than most or if you plan to travel soon. Certain international travel destinations might carry more risk for certain diseases, so letting your internist know about your plans well in advance is a good idea.
How Can I Improve My Health?
You can also ask your internal medicine doctor how to improve your health. Figure out what you’re at risk for and what lifestyle changes you need to make to get healthier. Our internal medicine doctors, for example, can help with weight loss or smoking cessation. Losing weight and quitting smoking can both lower your risk of developing certain medical issues later on. Asking your internist about steps you can take and their preventive medicine programs can make a big difference in your overall health.
Which Health Goals Should I Set?
On that same note, you can ask which health goals you should be setting. Should you lose weight? Do you need a healthier diet? Should you be exercising more? Is there a way to lower your risk for any kind of medical ailment? Talk to your internal medicine doctor and figure out what your health goals should be, and they’ll help set you on a path that allows you to fulfill them.
Can I Stop Using This Medication or Begin Using Less?
If you’re currently on medication, changes in your health status could actually mean that you don’t need to take as much of it anymore. You might even be able to drop the medication entirely. If your internist knows all of the medication that you’re taking and recent changes to your health and lifestyle, they can determine whether a dosage should remain the same or if a prescription can be dropped. This can be especially beneficial for patients who suffer from side effects from certain medications.
Your Internal Medicine Experts in Matthews, NC
At Matthews Internal Medicine we’re ready to answer all of the questions you have about your health and what we do, even if that question is “What is internal medicine, exactly?” So set up an appointment today and get the preventative care, screenings, and medical advice you need from one of our experienced internists.