Preparing for an appointment

If you or your child has been diagnosed with moyamoya disease, you'll most likely be referred to a doctor who specializes in brain conditions (neurologist). You can prepare to discuss the subject with your doctor at your next appointment.

What you can do

• Write down any symptoms you or your child has experienced. Include any that may seem unrelated to the reason you scheduled the appointment.
• Make a list of all medications. Include vitamins and supplements you or your child is taking, including dosages. Write down the reasons any were discontinued, whether because of side effects or lack of effectiveness.
• Ask a family member to come with you to the doctor. Sometimes it can be difficult to remember all the information provided during an appointment. Someone who goes with you may remember something you missed or forgot.
• Write down questions. Preparing a list of questions for your doctor will help you make the most of your time together.

Some basic questions to ask include:

• What is likely causing my or my child's symptoms or condition?
• What kinds of tests are necessary? Do they require any special preparation?
• What treatments are available, and which do you recommend?
• What types of side effects can be expected from treatment?
• Is surgery a possibility?
• Are you prescribing medication? If so, is there a generic alternative?
• My child has other medical problems. How can they be managed together?
• Will I or my child have any restrictions on physical activity?
• Are there brochures or other printed materials that I can take with me? What websites do you recommend?
• What makes a center of excellency for treatment of moyamoya patients?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you or your child a number of questions, such as:

• When did symptoms first occur?
• How often do the symptoms occur?
• Do certain activities trigger symptoms?
• Has anyone in your immediate family ever had moyamoya disease?