Preparing for an appointment

In most cases, complications of antiphospholipid syndrome — such as DVT, stroke or pregnancy loss — will prompt you to seek medical care. Depending on your complication, you'll likely see a specialist in vascular disease, obstetrics or hematology.

Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions. At the time you make the appointment, be sure to ask if there's anything you need to do in advance. Make a list of:

• Your signs or symptoms and when they began.
• Write down key personal information, including any major recent events or changes in your life.
• Key medical information, including other conditions or infections you have and family medical history, especially close relatives who've had antiphospholipid syndrome.
• All medications, vitamins and other supplements you take, including doses.
• Questions to ask your doctor.

Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help you remember the information you get.

For antiphospholipid syndrome, some questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• What tests do I need?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• How will you determine whether my treatment is working?
• Does this condition increase my risk of any other medical problems?
• Does this condition increase my risk of health problems during pregnancy? Are there treatments to reduce that risk?
• Are there brochures or other printed material that I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions, as well.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, including:

• Do you have a history of stroke or blood clots?
• Do you have a history of pregnancy complications, such as high blood pressure, miscarriage or stillbirth?
• Do you have lupus or another autoimmune disorder?
• Have you ever been tested for sexually transmitted infections or chronic viral diseases, such as hepatitis?
• Do you have frequent headaches?
• Have you noticed a red, net-like rash on your wrists or knees?
• Do you smoke?