Talking To Your Doctor About Your Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can be extremely debilitating and prevent you from doing things you love.You may have tried various treatments to find relief, but nothing seems to work. You may be feeling frustrated, helpless, and even hopeless. Dr Brian Blick says it may be due to the fact that you haven’t been honest with your doctor about the pain. Here’s how to have that conversation.
1. Know What You Want To Say Before The Appointment.
Chronic pain can be a very complex condition, and it can be difficult to explain everything that you’re feeling in one short doctor’s appointment. For that reason, it is important to take some time before your visit to jot down what you want to say. Make a list of your symptoms, how long you have been experiencing them, and how they impact your day-to-day life. This will help you make the most of your limited time with the Dr Brian Blick.
2. Be Specific About Your Symptoms.
When describing your symptoms to the doctor, it is important to be as specific as possible. This means being able to identify exactly where you are experiencing pain and what kind of pain it is (sharp, dull, throbbing, etc.). Additionally, if there are any triggers that make your pain worse or any activities that make your pain better, be sure to mention those as well. The more information that you can provide, the better equipped the doctor will be to help you find relief.
3. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask Questions.
It is perfectly normal to have questions about your chronic pain—after all, this is a new experience for you, and there is a lot that you probably don’t know. When meeting with the doctor, don’t hesitate to ask any questions that you may have about your condition or treatment options. Remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question! It is also important to ask about any potential side effects of medications or other treatments so that you know what to expect.
Bottom Note
Just follow these three simple tips, and you’ll be on your way to having a productive conversation with your doctor about your chronic pain.