Your healthcare team is there to help you
Talk to them.
“Your healthcare team” may sound like just a stock phrase. But consider the word
“healthcare.” These are trained professionals who care about your well-being. Further,
they’re your team.
For some people, talking to doctors and nurses can be intimidating, or the hospital
setting can seem overwhelming. But doctors and nurses are people just like patients.
Often, even if a particular healthcare professional can’t answer a particular question,
they may know someone who can.
What should you expect when you first visit your team?
In addition to asking about your symptoms, your doctor may ask you questions about
your general health, your urination patterns—such as how frequently you urinate,
the urgency with which you do so, and the rate of urine flow—and your sexual health.
The doctor may also call for tests such as:
- A general exam, including palpating (feeling) of the pelvic area for any abnormalities
- Digital rectal exam (DRE)
- PSA test
- Urinalysis to determine the content of urine
- Ultrasound to estimate the size of your prostate or tumor
What should you keep in mind for every health appointment?
Here are some tips to keep in mind for your next visit:
- Bring a friend: This can be a family member, caregiver, or anyone
who can help take notes and generally lend an extra hand
- List all your questions and concerns, and ask the most important ones first:
That way, even if you forget something here and there, you’ll be sure to keep on
top of what matters most
- Tell your healthcare team about any new prostate cancer symptoms or side
effects you may be experiencing: They may be able to help, and that new
information may help them plan the best treatment or side effect management for
you
- Mention any other conditions that are affecting you
- Keep your important health information with you: This includes
insurance information and the names and numbers of the other members of your team
- Make sure to tell your healthcare team about all the medications you’re
taking: This includes prescription medicines, over-the-counter therapies,
vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements
Download a list of questions for your doctor
Talking to family and friends about
cancer
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