WHEN DO YOU SEE A DOCTOR?
Cardiovascular disease is often easier to treat when healthcare providers catch it early. If you have any signs of cardiovascular disease, you should see your healthcare provider right away.
Call 911 or seek IMMEDIATE medical attention if you experience sudden:
  • Crushing or Pressing Sudden Chest pain
  • Severe shortness of breath, especially if new or progressive.
  • Pain or numbness in your arms/legs
  • Faiting episode
  • Ripping or tearing back pain
PREPARING FOR YOUR DOCTOR’S APPOINTMENT Here's some information to help you prepare for your appointment. WHAT CAN YOU DO BEFORE MEETING YOUR DOCTOR?
  1. Take note of any restrictions before your appointment. (Fasting etc)
  2. Write down any symptoms you are having. New or old and details like when it started, when it stops or when it worsens for you.
  3. Write down key personal information — including your family history of other diseases and take note of any major changes or stressors to your life recently
  4. Make a list of medications, vitamins or supplements you are currently taking or have taken before but stopped.
  5. Write down what you will want to ask your doctor. (Give some time to think this through)
WHAT CAN YOU ASK WHEN MEETING YOUR DOCTOR?
  • What is causing my symptoms or condition?
  • What kind of diet should I consume more and what should I avoid?
  • What is a good amount of physical activity you recommend for me?
  • How do I manage my other health conditions with what I have today?
  • What will be the best way to treat this condition?
  • What tests will I need to do for this condition?
  • How often should I come for follow up and how often do I need to check my cholesterol, sugar and blood pressure?
  • Are there restrictions that I need to follow?
  • Should I see a specialist?
  • Are there brochures or other materials that I can have?
  • What websites do you recommend for my further understanding?
WHAT WILL YOUR DOCTORS ASK YOU?
  • When did you first notice your symptoms?
  • Are your symptoms continuous or do they come and go?
  • How severe are your symptoms?
  • What improves or relieves your symptoms?
  • What worsens your symptoms?
  • Do you have a family history of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure or other serious illness?