Preparing for an appointment

You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in blood disorders (hematologist).

What you can do

• Write down your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason why you scheduled the appointment.
• Make a list of all your medications, vitamins and supplements.
• Write down your key medical information, including other conditions.
• Write down key personal information, including any recent changes or stressors in your life.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor.
• Ask a relative or friend to accompany you, to help you remember what the doctor says.

Questions to ask your doctor

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• What type of amyloidosis do I have?
• What organs are affected?
• What stage is my disease?
• What kinds of tests do I need?
• What kind of treatments do I need?
• Am I at risk of long-term complications?
• What types of side effects can I expect from treatment?
• Do I need to follow any dietary or activity restrictions?
• I have another health condition. How can I best manage them together?

In addition to the questions that you've prepared to ask your doctor, don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may provide time to go over points you want to spend more time on. You may be asked:

• When did you first begin experiencing symptoms? How severe are they, and are they continuous or occasional?
• Does anything seem to make your symptoms better or worse?
• How is your appetite? Have you recently lost weight without trying?
• Have you experienced any leg swelling?
• Have you experienced shortness of breath?
• Are you able to work and perform normal daily tasks? Are you often tired?
• Have you noticed that you bruise easily?
• Has anyone in your family ever been diagnosed with amyloidosis?