Preparing for an appointment

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

What you can do

• Write down the symptoms you have been experiencing and for how long.
• Write down key medical information, including other conditions.
• Make a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements that you're taking.

Questions to ask your doctor

• What's the most likely cause of my signs and symptoms?
• What kinds of tests do I need? Do they require any special preparation?
• What treatment do you recommend? Do I need surgery?

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 make time to go over points you want to spend more time on. You may be asked:

• Do you have any other health conditions, such as HIV/AIDS or Kaposi's sarcoma?
• When did you first begin experiencing symptoms?
• 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?