Talking to your doctor can be difficult if you have lung cancer. No matter what your diagnosis, simply hearing about it can leave you feeling frightened or overwhelmed. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to make communicating with your doctor easier.
Following are some tips that will help you when you first go to meet your doctor or, if you already have one, to help you talk with him or her about your cancer and treatment options:
Bring someone with you
It may not seem necessary, but it is always helpful to have support, a second set of ears, and another person to think of questions.
Write out a list of questions beforehand
It’s easy to become nervous or upset. A list will help you remember important questions. You can click here to print out a sample list.
Write down the answers you receive
Writing down answers will help you remember your doctor’s responses and will help you understand them later as well as you did during the visit.
If possible, take a tape recorder
It’s OK to ask your doctor if you can tape-record your visit. You may want to hear a reassurance again, or share it with friends and family.
Make sure you understand what you are saying and hearing
When talking, use “I” statements. The phrase “I don’t understand...” is much more effective than “You’re being unclear about...”
Be assertive!
Remember: you are your own best advocate. Don’t feel as though you’re taking up time or asking stupid questions. This is your appointment and your personal time with your physician.
Remember, no one source can answer all your questions or replace the information provided by your doctors and nurses. This Web site is not intended to replace ongoing communication between you and your health care team.
|
|
