Preparing for an appointment

While you may initially see your family doctor, he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in lung disorders (pulmonologist).

What you can do

Before your appointment, make a list that includes:

• Detailed descriptions of your symptoms
• Information about medical problems you've had
• Information about the medical problems of your parents or siblings
• All the medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbal preparations and dietary supplements you take
• Your smoking history
• Questions you want to ask the doctor

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor may ask some of the following questions:

• What are your symptoms and when did they begin?
• Did you recently have the flu or a cold?
• Do you now or have you ever smoked tobacco?
• Does anyone in your family or workplace smoke?
• Are you exposed to dust or chemicals at home or at work?
• Do you have heartburn?
• Do you cough up anything? If so, what does it look like?
• Do you take blood pressure medicine? If so, what type do you take?
• When does your cough occur?
• Does anything relieve your cough? What treatments have you tried?
• Do you get more short of breath or wheeze with exertion? Or on exposure to cold air?
• What is your travel history?

Your doctor will ask additional questions based on your responses, symptoms and needs. Preparing and anticipating questions will help you make the most of your time with the doctor.