Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Get a printable version here to bring with you to your next appointment!

Having a blood disease like ITP means you look fine to the outside world. Meanwhile, you may find yourself obsessing over your platelet count level or feeling anxious about how to avoid a bleeding injury. An open and honest dialogue with your doctor can help you become more comfortable with your condition and treatment.

Coming up with a list of questions before your scheduled visit can help you make the most out of your appointment. Here are some questions you may want to ask:

• How slowly or quickly is my ITP progressing?
• What are some treatments that might work for me?
• What are the side effects for any medications I'm taking?
• What are the side effects for any supplements I'm taking?
• If I take [x] treatment, when can I expect my symptoms to improve? How will I know?
• Should I look into alternative therapies to complement my treatment plan?
• Can anything help me not be so fatigued?
• How will I know if I need to make changes to my treatment plan?
• What kinds of exercises do you suggest?
• What can I do each day to take better care of myself?
• What should I be eating and what foods should I avoid?
• What type of follow-up tests will I receive and how often?
• What symptoms should prompt me to call you?
• When should I come back for my next checkup?
• Where can I learn more about ITP?