Before you visit your doctor it is a good idea to think through all the information you believe your doctor needs to know, for example,
- when did the symptoms start
- have symptoms changed
- how your life is affected and most importantly,
- tell your doctor how you feel. Don’t be afraid to say what you think is causing your problem or making things worse.
Write down your questions making sure the list is concise and clear. Prepare a copy to hand to your doctor so that you may run through the list together. If the list is longer than two or three points and it is obvious to you that you are not going to get through it at one appointment, it is possible to arrange a double appointment or another one a few days later.
Take a relative or friend with you if this will make you feel more comfortable. Briefly ask if your doctor would mind more than one person being present.
Listen to what your doctor says. If you don’t understand, or if you feel that he or she has not answered your questions, do not be afraid to ask again. Note down important points in writing. Check your list at the end of the appointment to make sure that you have covered all the points you wanted information on. If you feel you still need to discuss your concerns, make a further appointment.
Remember that there are other health professionals available to help you who may have more time to talk through your particular problem. Most GP surgeries have a nurse, health visitor or even a counsellor who would be happy to talk to you about how you feel, about your medication or about any social benefits to which you may be entitled.
Sometimes people feel uncomfortable with a certain doctor. Do not be afraid to do something about this. Either discuss it tactfully with your GP or ask to see another GP at the surgery who may be more sympathetic to you. Remember illness, through no fault of our own, often makes us a lot more sensitive to the reactions of others. Do not be afraid to say how you really feel - after all, you are the only person who knows.
Do not forget the chemist. The pharmacist dispensing your prescription either at your local chemist or hospital will be only too happy to explain any queries you may have about the medication, such as its possible side effects, the best time and way to take it and when the prescription should be renewed. Advice on general medical matters is also available.
Many local NHS hospitals now offer a new service, the Patient Advice and Liaison Service. This service has been set up to support patients, their families and carers. It can answer questions, offer suggestions and listen to your concerns. It can help resolve problems on your behalf, explain how you can obtain your personal health information and can give you information on services, organisations and help groups.
Many complementary and alternative medicines are available that may ease the symptoms of liver disease. But certain medications used in non-liver related disease can damage the liver. At present, healthcare professionals are not clear on the role and place of some therapies in managing liver disease. More research needs to be done on the use of these therapies. You may wish to discuss the use of these therapies with your doctor.
The British Liver Trust publishes a large range of leaflets about the liver and liver problems, specially written for the general public. Leaflets that you may find particularly helpful include:
First steps - a guide to your liver press ready v5.pdf