Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor. Depending on his or her findings, your doctor may refer you to an infectious disease specialist.

It's a good idea to prepare well for your appointment. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your doctor.

What you can do

• Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.
• Write down key personal information, including travel to other countries, major stresses or recent life changes.
• Make a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements that you're taking.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor.

Preparing a list of questions will help you make the most of your time with your doctor. For Chagas disease, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• What kinds of tests do I need?
• Is my condition likely temporary or long lasting?
• What treatments are available?
• I have these other health conditions. How can I best manage these conditions together?
• Am I contagious? Are others who traveled with me likely infected?
• Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me? What websites do you recommend visiting?

What to expect from your doctor

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

• When did you first begin experiencing symptoms?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• How severe are your symptoms?
• Does anything improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?
• Have you lived or traveled anywhere, such as Mexico, where the triatomine bug or Chagas disease is common?