Questions to Ask
Your Doctor for Women

You and Your Doctor >> Questions to Ask Your Doctor for Women

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Going to see the doctor? Even the best physician can't give you the right answers if you're not asking the right questions. Our simple, structured, and easy to read "Questions to Ask Your Doctor" section helps put you in control of your healthcare.

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Review the following Questions to Ask about heart disease so you're prepared to discuss this important health issue with your health care professional.

1. What tests should I have, and how often, to monitor my risk factors for developing heart disease or other cardiovascular diseases?

2. What do my test results mean? Do I have heart disease?

3. What sort of treatment plan do you recommend?

4. Am I at high risk for heart-related complications if I take birth control pills?

5. What are the possible side effects of medications I've been prescribed?

6. What should I do if I experience chest pain or if I think I'm having a heart attack?

7. How can I tell the difference between angina and a heart attack?

8. I've heard there is new scientific evidence indicating that use of hormone therapy by postmenopausal women can actually increase a woman's risk of developing heart disease, as well as other diseases such as breast cancer. Is it safe to use hormone therapy?

9. What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my cardiovascular health? Could vitamins help me?

10. Should I take aspirin to help prevent a heart attack? If so, how much and how often?