Osteoporosis…The "Silent Disease"

Helping your Doctor help You

• Talk first about what worries you most. Get straight to the point, so you won't miss your chance.
• Be specific. Don't just say, "I feel rotten." Describe symptoms as clearly as you can.
• Tell the truth. Your doctor needs to know what you really eat, how much you really exercise, and whether you drink, smoke, or use drugs. Everything you say is confidential.
• Ask questions. Bring a list to help you remember. If you hear any medical terms you don't understand, ask for definitions.
• Get the facts about each new treatment. If your doctor suggests you have a test or see another doctor, ask why.
• Speak up. If something bothers you, say so. If you want a certain medication or procedure, ask whether it will work for you.
• If you cannot follow your doctor's advice, say so. Be willing to negotiate. If your doctor advises a treatment with side effects you find hard to accept, say something like; "I'd find that hard to live with. Is there another option I could try?"
• Don't leave what you've learned at the doctor's office. Write down what you want to remember or need to do.

• How far your Osteoporosis has progressed.
• What your treatment plan includes; medications, diet, exercise, and changes around the house.
• Why estrogen is or isn't part of your treatment.
• Why alendronate or another nonestrogen medication is or isn't part of your treatment.
• The possible side effects of any medications you'll be taking.
• Whether any medicines you're already taking might make your Osteoporosis worse.
• Whether you need more calcium.
• Exactly what dietary or lifestyle changes you and your family should consider making.
• How you'll know your treatment plan is working.
• The next step.

Thanks to our sources:

Jeanette Waite, MHP Dietitian
Blair Moreau, MHP Exercise Physiologist
Thomas Anderson, MHP Pharmacy
Hologic Inc.
Dr. Yousif Hamati and Kyphon
www.health.com
www.Osteoporosis.com
www.MHP.com Health Library

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