Preparing for an appointment

First, you'll probably see your primary care physician. If you have diabetes, you might see your diabetes specialist (endocrinologist). However, you might be referred to a specialist in nerve disorders (neurologist).

You might see other specialists, depending on the part of your body affected by neuropathy, such as a cardiologist for blood pressure or heart rate problems or a gastroenterologist for digestive difficulties.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your appointment.

What you can do

Ask if you should do anything before your appointment, such as fasting before certain tests. Make a list of:

• Your symptoms, and when they began
• All medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, including doses
• Questions to ask your doctor

Take a friend or family member with you to help you remember the information you receive and to learn how to support you. For example, if you pass out from low blood pressure, people around you need to know what to do.

Questions to ask your doctor about autonomic neuropathy include:

• Why did I develop autonomic neuropathy?
• Could anything else cause my symptoms?
• What tests do I need?
• What treatments are available?
• Are there alternatives to the treatment you're suggesting?
• Is there anything I can do to help manage autonomic neuropathy?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage those with autonomic neuropathy?
• Do I need to follow a special diet?
• Are there activities I need to restrict?
• Do you have printed materials I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you questions, such as:

• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• How severe are your symptoms?
• Does anything seem to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?