By: Dr. Babar T. Shaikh

Ever got tongue-tied in the doctor's office?
Forgot all the questions you wanted to ask?
Or remembered them after you got home?

Visiting the doctor can be stressful. You might be grappling with unfamiliar medical terms, dealing with a confusing array of treatment options, feeling pressed for time, or just worried about getting the right treatment for your illness or that of a family member.

There are things you can do to get the most out of your visits to the doctor.

Write down your concerns and questions on a piece of paper. This will help you remember all the things you want to cover. If necessary, add notes about the medications you are taking and any family medical history that you think may be relevant.

Check with your doctor about inviting a family member or friend to accompany you on your visit who can take notes, ask questions you may not think of, and help you remember what the doctor says.

Using the notes you prepared in advance, ask your most important questions early in the visit. That way, the doctor can focus first on what you most want to know. Go over your list together and see if you will need a follow-up visit to cover all your concerns.

Take notes. This will help you remember what the doctor says. If a friend is with you, have them take notes while you focus on listening and asking questions.

Tell the doctor not just about your physical symptoms, but your thoughts and feelings as well. Depending on the illness or condition you are dealing with, you may need to know more about the pros and cons of different treatments, about how your everyday life may change, or how your family, home or work situations could be affected.

If you need to know more than the doctor can tell you during your visit, ask for material you can take away and read. Schedule a follow-up visit to deal with questions you might have regarding this information.

If you don't understand, say so. Ask the doctor to explain medical words or repeat things in plain language. Ask for a sketch or illustration that explains your illness, treatments or tests. Repeat what you think the doctor said, in your own words. This can clear up confusion, ensure you don't miss important points, and help you remember instructions.

Ask for a treatment plan. If you feel your own notes are not enough, have your doctor write down instructions for you. Don't be afraid to ask for a second opinion. Your doctor will be happy to have you confirm the results if it makes you feel better about your treatment.