Preparing for an appointment

If you have type 1 diabetes and you're having repeated hypoglycemic episodes, or if your blood sugar levels are dropping significantly, talk with your doctor to find out how you might need to change your diabetes management.

If you haven't been diagnosed with diabetes, make an appointment with your primary care doctor.

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

What you can do

• Write down your symptoms, including when they started and how often they occur.
• List your key medical information, including other conditions for which you're being treated and the names of medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, including doses.
• Log details about your recent diabetes management if you have diabetes. Include the timing and results of recent blood sugar tests, as well as the schedule on which you've been taking your medications, if any.
• List your typical daily habits, including alcohol intake, meals and exercise routines. Also, note recent changes to these habits, such as a new exercise routine, or a new job that's changed the times you eat.
• Take a family member or friend along, if possible. Someone who accompanies you can help you remember the information you're given.
• Write down questions to ask your doctor. This can help you make the most of your time with your doctor.

Questions to ask your doctor if you have diabetes include:

• Are my signs and symptoms due to hypoglycemia?
• What do you think is triggering my hypoglycemia?
• Do I need to adjust my treatment plan?
• Do I need to change my diet or exercise routine?
• I have other health conditions. How can I manage these conditions together?

Questions to ask if you haven't been diagnosed with diabetes include:

• Is hypoglycemia the most likely cause of my symptoms?
• What else might be the cause?
• What tests do I need?
• What self-care steps, including lifestyle changes, can I take to help improve my symptoms?
• Should I see a specialist?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor might ask you questions, including:

• When do your symptoms typically occur?
• Does anything seem to provoke your symptoms?
• Have you been diagnosed with other medical conditions?