Again, I am not here to replace your doctor. However, I know that sometimes your doctor doesn't explain your condition in a way that you understand. Or answer any questions you might have. Or you were so worried at the time you completely forgot all the answers and are too embarrassed to ask again.
Samples:
1) Do these medicines interact?
2) I saw on the news that XYZ medicine can kill you. Why is my doctor still prescribing it?
3) What is (insert disease)? How do you get it? What are common treatments for it?
4) Are there any special diets that are recommended for my condition?
5) What kind of doctor would you suggest I see for the following symptoms?
Things not to ask:
1) I have had these symptoms for several months and have not been to see a doctor. What do you think I could have?
Reason: Without a patient in front of me, and the possibility to ask multiple targeted follow-up questions, it is impossible to get an accurate diagnosis. However, sometimes I can point you in the direction of the specialty you should seek out for a medical evaluation.
2) My doctor did XYZ and I think they committed medical malpractice, what do you think?
Reason: I am not here to bear witness against a colleague. They have had the benefit of you in front of them. I have not. I will answer targeted questions about your disease. But I won't play the "hindsight" game.
3) I feel dizzy and have chest pain, what do I do? (Asking about emergencies)
Reason: All I will say is: "These are symptoms that could represent a medical emergency. If you think you could have such a condition, call 911 immediately."
