How to Get the Most Out of Your Doctor’s Appointment: Tips for Better Care and Communication
SPECIAL ISSUE: HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
WORDS - Diana McDonnell, DNP
Illustration - Lilly Taing
One of the most important things you can do to understand your blood pressure is to keep a log of your regular blood pressure readings and share it with your health care provider. This allows them to see the trend of your blood pressure over time, not just what it is on the day of your appointment. Take notes of your readings in a journal, a note on your phone, or a blood pressure tracking app. Consider adding notes on certain readings, such as if you were under a particular amount of stress that day, if you had a headache, what you ate, or any other things that might affect your blood pressure.
Bring a list of questions that you have for your provider and any information that your provider should know. Also, if you are struggling with controlling your blood pressure and you think you’ve identified a particular barrier (such as the cost of the medication, forgetting to take it everyday, or difficulty maintaining an exercise regimen) bring that to your provider’s attention.
What questions should I ask my doctor about my blood pressure?
What is my blood pressure today?
How do I understand my blood pressure numbers?
Do I qualify as having high blood pressure?
What stage of hypertension do I have, and what does that mean for my current and long term health?
What specific actions can I take to improve my blood pressure (diet, exercise, or other)?
How often should I check my blood pressure?
Can you prescribe me an at-home blood pressure monitor so I can check my blood pressure more regularly?
Should I be taking medication for my blood pressure?
Does my blood pressure medicine need to be taken with food or on an empty stomach?
Do I need to take it at the same time everyday?
What are the side effects to look out for with my blood pressure medication?
Does my blood pressure medicine interact with any of my other medications?
Are there other resources that you would recommend on high blood pressure management?
