Preparing for an appointment

You might start by seeing your primary care provider. However, you'll likely be referred to a doctor who specializes in treating hormonal disorders (endocrinologist).

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

What you can do

Before your appointment, make a list of:

• Your symptoms, including those that seem unrelated, and when they began
• Key personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes, medical history, and family medical history
• 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're given.

For hypercalcemia, basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• What tests do I need?
• What treatments are available, and which do you recommend?
• What side effects can I expect from treatment?
• Are there alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you questions, including:

• Does anything improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, worsens your symptoms?
• Have you had kidney stones, bone fractures or osteoporosis?
• Do you have bone pain?
• Do you have unexplained weight loss?
• Have family members had hypercalcemia or kidney stones?