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Kylie Leeson

Questions to ask your doctor about ITP


questions to ask your doctor

I believe the hardest part about ITP is when you are first diagnosed, it is a lot of information to process, you feel like your brain may explode and believe me it is just the beginning of a very emotional roller-coaster. But don't stress, because once you get past the initial qualifying period it does get much easier.

The best thing you can do right now is build up your knowledge about this condition and get guidance from your doctor in regards to your personal situation. The reason I state "personal situation" is because not all ITP patients suffer the same fate therefore you really need to get the conversation going with your doctor in regards to knowing your personal circumstances. Please do not compare your condition to others as it would be an unfair comparison and may cause more unnecessary worry to an already concerning situation.

Therefore to try and help you out and get you started here some top questions you will want to ask your specialist;

  1. What are the symptoms of low platelets and when should I report them?

  2. How should I report my symptoms?

  3. When should I seek emergency care?

  4. How often will I require blood tests?

  5. What are the treatment options?

  6. What are the side effects of these treatment options?

  7. Which treatment would you recommend for me and why?

  8. What is the success rate of this treatment?

  9. If that treatment doesn't work what is the next best option?

  10. When should I start treatment?

  11. Are there any medications I should avoid?

  12. Are there any activities I should avoid?

  13. Are there any natural remedies you would recommend?

  14. Am I an acute case or chronic?

  15. Do you know what has caused my condition?

  16. What is the outlook for my situation?

  17. What would you call a safe platelet level for me?

  18. In case of an emergency where is the closest hospital to my home that can handle my condition?

Please keep in mind that you want to maintain a good relationship with you specialist and at times you may not like the answers you are given however the doctor is here help you and can only guide you. Remember there is no cure for ITP only band-aid solutions to help when your levels get too low. Ultimately the final decision in regards to treatment is up to you so it's best you educate yourself, listen to your doctor and only make decisions that you feel comfortable with.

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