Preparing for an appointment

You'll likely see your family doctor if you think you have a bleeding problem. You then might be referred to a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of bleeding disorders (hematologist).

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

What you can do

Ask about pre-appointment restrictions when you make the appointment. You might need to follow dietary restrictions or fast for eight to 10 hours if blood tests are scheduled.

Make a list of:

• Signs or symptoms that involve bleeding, including how often, how severe and for how long. Include unusual bruising. Your doctor will want to know if you have a history of nosebleeds or easy bruising since childhood or — for women — if your periods have been extended and heavy since you first started menstruating.
• Key personal information, including major stresses or recent changes — both positive and negative.
• Key medical information, including other medical problems and close relatives who bleed easily. Also list medications, vitamins or 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'll be given.

For von Willebrand disease, questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's the most likely reason for my symptoms?
• What treatment do you recommend, and how will you monitor whether it's working?
• What are the possible side effects of the medications you're prescribing?
• Does this condition increase my risk of other medical problems?
• What steps will I need to take before having surgery or dental procedures?
• Does this condition increase my risk of health problems during pregnancy and childbirth? Are treatment options available to reduce that risk?
• Do I need to avoid certain physical activities or types of exercise?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor might ask:

• Have you ever had bleeding from a small wound that lasted more than 15 minutes or recurred during the week following the wound?
• Have you ever had a nosebleed that lasted more than 10 minutes or needed medical attention?
• Have you ever had unexpected bruising? Have you ever felt a lump under the bruise?
• For women, for how many days do your menstrual periods last? How often do you have to change your tampon or sanitary pad during a period? Do you ever notice blood clots in your menstrual flow?
• Have you ever had blood in your stool that wasn't explained by a known medical problem, such as a stomach ulcer or colon polyp?
• Have you ever needed medical attention for bleeding during or after surgery, dental procedures, childbirth or injury?
• Have you ever had anemia or needed a blood transfusion?

What you can do in the meantime

While you wait for your appointment, avoid pain relievers that can increase your risk of bleeding episodes, such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen sodium. If you need relief for aches and pains, try acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) instead.

Steer clear of contact sports associated with a high risk of bruising or injury, such as football and hockey. If you have any medical or dental procedures scheduled, tell your doctor or dentist about your history of heavy bleeding from minor injuries.

If you're having a procedure that's not urgent, reschedule it until after you've been evaluated for a bleeding disorder.