When you are a patient of a Brooklyn heart doctor, you likely have concerns. The best way to understand your condition, relieve your concerns and understand your treatment plan is to ask questions.
Your Brooklyn Heart Doctor Understands Your Fears
Your heart doctor, or cardiologist, understands that whether you are newly diagnosed or if you have been seeing a cardiologist for years, you likely have concerns.
One important thing to understand, as pointed out by the American Heart Association is the fact that “You’re part of the team.” As a part of the team responsible for your heart health, you should ask questions so that you understand your diagnosis, ongoing care, prognosis and your role on your care team.
Why Should I Ask Questions? Won’t the Doctor Keep Me Informed?
There are many reasons you may need to see a heart doctor. The only way for you to understand why you were referred to a cardiologist is to ask.
Never be afraidto ask about asking questions when you see your heart doctor. The American College of Cardiology explains that asking questions, “Help ensure that you and your doctor have a productive conversation so that you can become or stay as healthy as possible.”
What Questions Should I Ask My Heart Doctor?
Some questions you ask will depend on your specific diagnosis. Even if you think your question does not apply to your condition, ask anyway so that you understand what you want to know.
Some general questions to ask your Brooklyn heart doctor include:
- Can you explain my diagnosis?
- What caused my condition?
- Is my condition considered mild, moderate, severe?
- What is my prognosis?
- How will my life change?
- Is there a way to stop or reverse my condition?
- What medications do I need?
- Do I need any type of therapy?
- What symptoms should I report?
- Do I need additional tests or procedures?
You should always feel free to ask your heart doctor any questions that you have about your specific condition.
For example, American College of Cardiology suggests that if you have atrial fibrillation, you may want to ask about the specific type of atrial fibrillation you have as well as other diagnosis-specific questions. Similarly, if you have acute coronary syndrome, you may ask how often you should see the doctor, how heart attack symptoms differ between men and women and other questions about your condition.
When Should I Contact My Brooklyn Heart Doctor?
Having a diagnosis of a heart attack, heart disease or other diagnosis is serious. You should not wait until appointment to ask questions or express concerns.
Know your heart doctor Brooklyn team and who you should contact both during and after office hours.